The question of whether Lionel Messi will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains open, with Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni emphasizing that the decision rests entirely with the legendary forward. As the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, approaches, the football world is captivated by the possibility of witnessing Messi’s potential sixth World Cup appearance.
Scaloni addressed the topic directly during a press conference on Friday, ahead of Argentina’s upcoming friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia. While expressing his desire for Messi to be involved, he underscored the importance of respecting the player’s autonomy. “I aim for him to be there,” Scaloni said, as reported by OneFootball. “But the decision is his. Hopefully, yes.”
This stance reflects a shift in approach from the Argentina staff, who have consistently maintained since 2025 that Messi has earned the right to determine his own timeline without external pressure. After leading Argentina to victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar – a defining moment in his illustrious career – every subsequent international appearance carries a different weight. It’s less about proving anything and more about personal choice.
The factors influencing Messi’s decision are straightforward: his physical condition, motivation, and ability to recover. At 38 years old during the tournament, maintaining peak performance will require careful management. Messi currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, having joined the league in 2023. He has started the 2026 season strongly, scoring 5 goals in 6 matches across all competitions as of February, demonstrating he can still compete at a high level.
Scaloni’s comments, echoed by reports in Le Parisien, highlight the respect afforded to Messi. “It’s more a question for him,” Scaloni explained. “You know my position, I will do everything possible for him to be there. But it’s him who will decide, depending on his state of mind, his physical condition.” This sentiment underscores the understanding that Messi has earned the right to “decide quietly,” as Scaloni put it.
Messi is already the most capped player in the history of World Cup qualifying matches, a testament to his enduring commitment to the national team. With 26 appearances in World Cup qualifying, he continues to chase records while representing Argentina. The upcoming friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia will provide a glimpse into his current form and fitness, but the decision regarding the 2026 World Cup rests solely with the player.
The uncertainty surrounding Messi’s participation has naturally fueled speculation and anticipation among fans worldwide. As Le Parisien noted, “Beyond Argentina, it’s the whole world of football that hopes to spot Lionel Messi perform his last dance on the American continent.” The prospect of witnessing Messi grace the World Cup stage one last time is a compelling narrative for the tournament.
Scaloni acknowledged the widespread desire to see Messi play, stating, “It’s difficult, because it’s not just the Argentinians who want him there, everyone wants to see him there. But he has earned the right to be able to decide quietly, we are not in a hurry. What he decides will be the best for the team and for him. We hope it will be yes but tell you more.”
For now, Messi is focused on his commitments with Inter Miami and the upcoming international friendlies. The football world awaits his decision with bated breath, recognizing that his presence in the 2026 World Cup would undoubtedly elevate the tournament to even greater heights. The next confirmed checkpoint will be the announcement of Argentina’s final squad list for the 2026 World Cup, a moment that will either confirm Messi’s participation or signal the end of an era.
What are your thoughts? Will Lionel Messi play in the 2026 World Cup? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below.
