AFCON 2025
Lionel Messi’s future plans are always a hot topic, and Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has weighed in on the possibility of the legendary forward playing in the 2026 World Cup.
Messi, 37, became a world champion in 2022 and was expected to hang up his international boots. However, he decided to stick around and enjoy playing as a world champion for a bit longer.
When asked about his participation in the next World Cup, Messi has refused to give a straight answer, saying he’ll decide based on how he feels before the tournament.
Argentina recently sealed their spot in the 2026 World Cup with a convincing 4-1 win over Brazil. Messi wasn’t part of the squad for this international break, as he’s had to manage his game time due to his age.
After the win over Brazil, Scaloni was asked about Messi’s chances of playing in the next World Cup. He replied:
Argentina are loving that win over Brazil 🤫 pic.twitter.com/fi6GkTUBAT
— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 26, 2025
“We’re taking it game by game. I don’t want to be dealing with that issue all year.
“We have to leave him alone and let him decide. He’ll decide, and let’s not drive him crazy.”
Scaloni is giving Messi the space he needs to make his own decision. Only time will tell if we’ll see the legendary forward on the pitch in 2026.
