
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has admitted he is uncertain about representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing concerns over fitness and age.
The 38-year-old forward made the revelation after inspiring Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Venezuela on Thursday, where he scored twice. The match may prove to be his final qualifying appearance on home soil.
“As I’ve said before, I don’t think I’ll play another World Cup. At my age, it’s only logical to think I might not,” Messi told TyC Sports.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, stressed that his decision will depend on how his body holds up over the coming months.
“Match by match, I’ll finish the season, then have preseason, and in six months, I’ll see how I feel,” he added.
While fans continue to hope for one more World Cup appearance from their talisman, Messi’s remarks suggest that his glittering international career could be nearing its conclusion.