Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine forward, has expressed a strong desire to defend Argentina’s World Cup title at the upcoming tournament, set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer. In a recent rare interview with NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas, Messi opened up about his aspirations and the physical considerations that may affect his participation.
Just days after extending his contract with Inter Miami until 2028, Messi affirmed his commitment to both his club and national team. When asked about the upcoming 2026 World Cup, Messi remarked, “The truth is that yes, it’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup. And I would like to be there.” His enthusiasm and determination shine through, as he indicated his intention to assess his fitness on a daily basis during the preseason with Inter Miami next year.
Lionel Messi: Nostalgia and Determination
Reflecting on his previous triumph, Messi describes the experience of defending the World Cup as “spectacular.” He shared, “We’re coming off winning the last World Cup, and being able to defend it on the field again is spectacular.” The emotional weight of representing Argentina in significant competitions fuels his ambitions, as he hopes to fulfill this dream once more.
At 38, Messi remains a formidable force in football, recently leading Inter Miami in their quest for the MLS Cup. His performances in the Major League Soccer (MLS) have ensured he remains a key player, despite the inevitable march of time. With a recent victory in the Best of Three series against Nashville SC, Messi has taken center stage as Miami vies for their first MLS Cup.
Contract Extension and Continued Legacy
On extending his contract with Inter Miami, Messi shared candidly, “Honestly, it wasn’t [a difficult decision].” He attributes his ease in deciding to sign with how well he feels both physically and mentally, calling Miami home for himself and his family. With 29 goals and 15 assists in just 28 league appearances, Messi has smashed expectations, proving he can still dominate the game amidst the growing competition in the U.S.
Messi’s performance stats are impressive, boasting 73 goals and 37 assists across 83 appearances with Inter Miami. His contributions have already brought home significant trophies, including the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. His ability to impact matches remains undiminished, even as he experiences the natural declines that come with age.
Adapting to New Challenges
Messi reflects on adapting to his evolving capabilities, noting, “As you get older, you lose things that you had when you were younger.” Despite acknowledging declines in speed and reaction time, he remains committed to leveraging his physical abilities to maximize his performance. This adaptability underscores his enduring greatness in the world of football.
A Vision for MLS Growth
In addition to his on-field commitments, Messi has voiced aspirations for the growth of MLS. He believes teams should have the freedom to sign players without limitations, advocating for an environment where clubs can compete without financial barriers. “If they were given the freedom,” he insists, “many more important players would come and help the growth of the United States.”
Messi’s journey in the United States hasn’t just been about individual accolades; it’s been about elevating the sport’s profile and encouraging a competitive culture within MLS. Until he returns to international duty, his focus stays on continuing to sharpen his skills with Inter Miami.
Legacy and Reflections
Regardless of the outcomes in the upcoming World Cup or further club accolades, Messi’s achievements will always be a testament to his skill and determination. His first World Cup title remains central to his career narrative. Reflecting on that milestone, he shared, “Everything I went through and everything I did to achieve that — it was the dream of my life.” The emotional connection he has with his journey underscores the profound impact football has had on his life and career.