Will Lionel Messi play in the 2026 World Cup? Latest on Inter Miami star's plan
Lionel Messi is enjoying a superb start to life at Inter Miami with the Argentina international scoring a hatful of goals and winning an army of fans in MLS.
Messi decision to join Tata Martino's side following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain triggered a Camp Nou reunion in Florida, with former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba also arriving at the club.
The 36-year-old has indicated that he's willing to continue his international career after winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina.
Glory in Qatar appeared to be the perfect final chapter for Messi and Argentina but he is yet to fully close the door on playing at the 2026 tournament. The Sporting News has the latest on Messi's international future.
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A move to the USA has generated more focus on Messi competing in 2026 with his new home co-hosting the competition alongside Canada and Mexico.
Following the 2022 final win over France, Messi appeared to claim he was edging towards international retirement, with a farewell planned in 2023.
He said: "I'll see how things go, but as it is right now, no, I won't go to the next World Cup."
However, the situation continues to evolve, and as part of an interview with Argentinian comedian Migue Granados Messi said he'll continue to check on his ability to keep performing at the highest level.
"It still seems a long way away," he said. "Yes, my goal is to play in the Copa America (in 2024), which is also here in the United States. After that, we'll see.
"It principally depends on how I'm feeling. We'll have to see about the league here, the level of competition. I don't know."
Messi played and scored in three of
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