After an emotional night at the Monumental Stadium, Lionel Messi, Argentina’s iconic captain, cast uncertainty over one of the most anticipated chapters of his illustrious career: participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 38-year-old maestro, who delivered a stirring double in Argentina’s 3-0 triumph over Venezuela, offered candid, perhaps bittersweet, reflections that suggest his international career may be drawing to an end.
With the Albiceleste already assured of qualification and the world watching, Messi’s performance could have been a grand finale of pure celebration. Instead, what followed was a sober and sincere admission: “In the past, I said it, logically, it was unlikely I’d play in a World Cup at 39. It’s nine months away, which is close, but it’s a long time as well,” he told reporters after the match in Buenos Aires.
Despite the atmosphere of triumph, there was poignancy in his words. “I love this, I love playing and I never want it to end,” Messi continued, “but the moment is coming, I am aware, it will happen when it has to happen.” His physical condition, particularly recent injury concerns during his tenure with Inter Miami, weighed heavily on his decision-making.
Coaches and teammates have also taken note; Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, opted to rest Messi for the final qualifier against Ecuador in Guayaquil—a move seen by many observers as a precaution against overextending an aging athlete now entering his 39th year.
Messi frankly acknowledged that his choice will hinge on more than aspiration alone. “When I feel good, I enjoy myself. And if I’m not feeling well, I really struggle, I’d rather not be playing, so we’ll see,” he said, underlining the importance of physical and mental readiness.
This shift in tone marks a poignant moment in Messi’s career, one that is bound to stir both introspection and speculation. Was this truly his last competitive fixture at home for Argentina? Brands of farewell were faintly discernible beneath the emotional applause of a sold-out stadium, awash with banners that read “Gracias por todo, mi capitán.”
To fully understand the weight of Messi’s uncertainty, one must consider the unparalleled legacy he has built for Argentina—and for the sport itself. Having already secured status as Argentina’s record scorer, with 114 goals and 61 assists in 194 caps, he delivered one final masterpiece at home in World Cup qualifying.
Messi has been a constant in Argentine football across two decades—crowned World Champion in 2022 in Qatar and memorable in countless editions of Copa América and World Cups. His evolution from a reserved Rosario youth to the unifying force of the national team is deeply woven into the Argentine identity.
His recent success with Inter Miami added another dimension to his legacy. Still commanding global adoration, Messi has become both a superstar in MLS and a key to the league’s growing prestige. Yet, that same platform has taken a physical toll—evident in his recent injuries that prompted absences and caution, both at club and national level.
Messi’s admission of “I don’t think I’ll play another World Cup” has set off alarm bells, but he stopped short of a definitive goodbye. Encouragingly, he added, “I’m still excited and motivated,” even if, “it’s day by day, match by match.” Other outlets captured similar sentiments: “Solo Dios lo sabe” (“Only God knows”), he posted on social media, summing up the uncertainty of his future.
At 38 years old, Messi stands at a crossroads. His declaration that participating in the 2026 World Cup looks unlikely signals the possible dawn of his retirement from international football—a poignant shift for a player who has been central to Argentina’s modern identity. His message is clear: if the day comes when he is not at his best, he would rather that chapter end than go on with diminished joy.