The Argentine great Lionel Messi has been one of the all time greats in football history. Messi played a pivotal in 2022 FIFA World Cup by leading the side to title glory after 36 years of wait in Qatar. Messi and his troops defeated France in a mouth-watering final. Many felt that the Argentine great would retire after the title glory but he continued playing.
In 2024, Messi yet again added another title under his belt by winning Copa America by defeating Colombia in the final. After all this glory, now the question remains the same, ‘Will Messi Play The Upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 and Defend The Title?’, Messi revealed his plan for the upcoming tournament.

What Messi Has To Say
“The truth is that when you start thinking about it, it’s a long time away but at the same time it’s going to pass quickly, no? For me this year is going to be important (for the World Cup), to be able to play with continuity, to feel good. Last year I joined up for pre-season and started a couple of games, then had to miss a few games through injuries or not feeling 100 percent. This time pre-season has been good, I’ve started well and I feel good,” said Messi in an interaction with Simplemente Ftbol.
“It’s a long season. It’s started now and runs through to December without a break in June, on top of that we have the Club World Cup in June as well, another competition. There are lots of games,” Messi said about the ongoing season. I think about it and wait and see but I don’t want to set that goal either,” he added. “I’ll take it day by day and see how I feel physically above all else, and be honest with myself too,” Messi added.
Injury Concerns For Messi
Playing for Inter Miami, Messi suffered from multiple injuries and missed several games which raised concerns regarding his fitness. He also didn’t travel to play for Argentina against Uruguay and Brazil.
The good thing for Messi fans is that he will be seen playing for Inter Miami in the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup later this year.
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