As the football world watches with bated breath, Lionel Messi, the maestro himself, reflects candidly on the twilight of his international career and the tantalizing possibility of a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance.
Even at 36 years old – and he`ll be 38 by the time the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off – Lionel Messi continues to weave magic on the pitch. His recent performances for Argentina, including a memorable two-goal masterclass against Venezuela, serve as a potent reminder of his undiminished skill and genius. Yet, amidst the jubilation and the roar of adoring crowds, a shadow of uncertainty looms over his future, specifically concerning his potential participation in the next global tournament.
The Maestro`s Candid Reflection on Time and Body
Following a recent triumph, Messi offered a rare glimpse into his personal considerations regarding the footballing world`s most coveted event. His words were a blend of professional pragmatism and a deep, almost poignant, self-awareness – a dialogue between his enduring will and the realities of his physical form.
“Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, match by match, going by how I feel. Day by day, trying to feel good and above all, being honest with myself.”
This statement, delivered with characteristic humility, encapsulates the dilemma facing perhaps the greatest player of all time. It’s a battle not against an opposing defender, but against the relentless march of time and the accumulating toll on a body that has given so much to the beautiful game. It`s a calculated risk assessment, performed daily by an athlete who understands the fine line between passion and physical limitation.
The Unavoidable Toll of Elite Sport
While his touch remains exquisite and his vision unparalleled, the physical demands of elite football are unforgiving. Messi openly acknowledged the increasing frequency of injuries. Missing four games for Inter Miami due to muscular issues in a single month is not merely an inconvenience; it`s a growing pattern for athletes entering the latter stages of their careers. It`s a cruel irony that even a player of Messi`s caliber, seemingly immune to the conventional laws of physics for so long, must ultimately contend with the very human limitations of tendons and muscles.
His philosophy is clear: to play only when he can perform at his absolute best. “When I feel good, I enjoy it. But when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time, so I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good.” This isn`t the sentiment of a player clinging to past glory; it is, in essence, a rigorous technical decision. It`s a precise evaluation of physical capital versus performance output, ensuring that every time he steps onto the pitch, he can meet the extraordinary standards he has set for himself. Anything less would be a disservice to his legacy, and perhaps, to the game itself.
A Legacy in the Balance: The Quest for Six World Cups
The 2026 World Cup holds a unique allure for Messi, offering a chance at a truly historic milestone. Should he participate, he would join an elite club, potentially becoming one of only two players (alongside his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo) to feature in six different World Cups. This achievement is not merely a number; it is a testament to unparalleled longevity, sustained brilliance, and consistent performance at the absolute pinnacle of sport. For Argentina, his presence, even at an advanced age, would be an immeasurable boost – not just for his undeniable on-field contributions, but for the sheer psychological advantage and leadership his aura provides to a team.
The decision, he assures us, will be made methodically, without haste or emotional pressure: “Match by match, I’ll finish the [MLS] season, then I’ll have preseason, and there will be six months left. So, we’ll see how I feel. Hopefully, I’ll have a good preseason in 2026, and finish this MLS season well, and then I’ll decide.” This isn`t a hasty retreat but a calculated assessment, a meticulous plan from a player who leaves nothing to chance, except perhaps, the inevitable whims of his own physiology.
Anticipation and the Enduring Question
The prospect of a World Cup without Lionel Messi is, for many, almost unthinkable. He has been a constant, a defining figure, and a source of unparalleled joy for two decades. Yet, his honesty about his physical state is a poignant reminder that even legends are bound by the same biological clock as the rest of us – albeit one that, for him, has ticked at a gloriously slow pace. The football world waits, hopeful but understanding, as the greatest player of his generation navigates this deeply personal, pivotal decision. Until then, we cherish every touch, every goal, and every moment of the enduring magic of Lionel Messi, knowing that each performance is a testament to his will to defy time, even as he respectfully acknowledges its power.
