Lionel Messi Reflects on 2026 World Cup and Future in Football

Lionel Messi, 38, shared his thoughts on retirement and the 2026 World Cup, saying he will continue playing as long as he feels fit and happy. The Inter Miami star, who extended his contract until 2028, said he doesn’t want to burden Argentina’s team and will decide participation based on his physical condition.

When the legendary Lionel Messi spoke about his football future, it stirred both excitement and reflection among fans. At 38, the Inter Miami star and former Barcelona icon remains passionate about the game but admits he is nearing the final phase of his career. Recently extending his contract with Inter Miami until 2028, Messi could still be playing into his forties. He also made headlines after a quiet return to Camp Nou, where he revealed that he and his family are considering settling again in Barcelona.

In an interview with the newspaper sports, Messi said he would continue playing as long as he feels physically fit and enjoys the game. The moment he feels he can no longer compete at his best, he will step away. Speaking about the 2026 World Cup, Messi confessed uncertainty about participating, explaining that he does not want to be a burden on Argentina.

However, he remains motivated by the tournament’s significance and plans to assess his fitness closer to the event. Despite missing four of Argentina’s last seven matches this year, Messi’s form at Inter Miami has been exceptional, scoring 42 goals and assisting 20 times in 46 appearances, proving he still plays at an elite level.