Lionel Messi Eyes 2026 World Cup as Inter Miami Star Shares Future Plans
Lionel Messi confirms plans to decide on participating in the 2026 World Cup early next year, while extending his contract with Inter Miami until 2028.
- • Messi expresses strong desire to lead Argentina in 2026 World Cup and will decide participation early next year.
- • He emphasizes importance of being physically fit to contribute effectively to the national team.
- • Messi renewed Inter Miami contract until 2028 and enjoys life in Miami.
- • He suggests MLS growth through fewer restrictions on player signings.
Key details
Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend currently playing for Inter Miami, has expressed a strong desire to lead Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking in an interview with NBC, Messi stated he will make a final decision on participating early next year, emphasizing the importance of being physically fit to contribute effectively to the national team. At 38, Messi described winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream and views the upcoming tournament as an extraordinary opportunity.
Beyond his national team ambitions, Messi recently renewed his contract with Inter Miami through 2028, expressing his fondness for living in Miami, citing its quality of life and suitability for raising his children. He also shared insights on the growth prospects of soccer in the United States, suggesting that relaxing restrictions on player signings in Major League Soccer could attract more top talent and boost the sport's popularity.
Messi reflected on his sporting idols, naming Diego Maradona as his greatest inspiration, while acknowledging other sports figures like Michael Jordan and tennis greats Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic for their impact.
As Messi balances his club commitments with Inter Miami and his potential participation in the 2026 World Cup, fans await his official decision next year, which will mark a significant chapter in his storied career.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
