He has already lifted the world’s most coveted trophy above his head and collected every individual award one could imagine. Yet for 38-year-old Lionel Messi there remains an open question: should he step into one more global tournament and try to defend the champion’s title? The captain of Argentina’s national team spoke about his motivation, common sense, and the standard of responsibility to La Albiceleste.
"The Dream Hasn't Gone Away"
— Leo, you have said many times that the World Cup is a special stage for you. How realistic is your participation in 2026?
— The desire is there — strong and real. It’s still a boyhood dream, only now I clearly understand: if I go, it won’t be for show, but to help the team. For me it’s important to be in shape, match the level of the tournament, and remain a truly important player for Argentina.
Preseason as a Litmus Test
— When will we hear a definitive “yes” or “no”?
— After the winter preseason with Inter Miami. In MLS the preparation cycle runs in January–February, and that’s exactly when I’ll see whether I can consistently work at 100%, handle the schedule and the intensity. If my body says “yes,” the decision will be obvious. If I see that I’m not meeting my own standards — I’ll say that honestly too.
The Leader's Role: Be Useful, Not Just a Symbol
— You have legendary status with the national team. Is that already enough?
— Symbols don’t score goals and don’t win matches. A world champion’s responsibility is to step up and help: in build-up play, in pressing, and in the dressing room. If Tito (a representative of the coaching staff) sees that I can provide the required volume and quality, then it all makes sense. Any other motivation is wrong.
A Contract in the USA and a Long Horizon
— You recently extended your deal with Inter Miami through 2028. Does that affect your national-team decision?
— The extension is about club goals and family comfort. But it also brings stability: a clear routine, preparation, media workload. That helps me assess my body and resources honestly. For the World Cup decision, I look only at sporting criteria.
Defending the Title — A Challenge That's Hard to Turn Down
— 2022 brought Argentina a long-awaited victory. Does the idea of returning to defend the title push you forward?
— Of course. Winning is always enjoyable, and defending a title is a special motivation. But the path starts not with emotions, but with basics: physical condition, rhythm, the team environment, and your role in the system. If all the pieces fit — why not?
A New Stage: USA, Mexico, Canada
— The tournament will be held across three countries — the USA, Mexico and Canada — from June 11 to July 19, 2026. How important is that context?
— It will be a massive football festival, at a new level of organization and scale for many. Logistics, climate, flights — everything must be accounted for. But top teams have one task: prepare so that these details work for you, not against you.
The Final Note Is on Hold for Now
— If you had to answer right now?
— It’s too early. I respect the tournament, my teammates in the national team, and the fans. That’s why I’m taking time until the January–February preseason: I’ll go through the full cycle, assess my readiness, and make an honest decision. I really want to go. And if I feel ready, I’ll do everything to defend the crown with Argentina.
