Lionel Messi has not yet officially announced whether he will take part in the 2026 World Cup, but Inter Miami head coach and fellow Argentine Javier Mascherano has hinted that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is expected to remain part of Argentina’s plans.
It has long been assumed that Messi, who lifted the World Cup in 2022, would aim to appear in at least one more major international tournament as his country’s captain.
Messi yet to confirm decision on 2026 World Cup future
Now playing his club football in the United States after enjoying a historic MLS Cup triumph with Inter Miami in 2025, Messi will arrive at FIFA’s flagship tournament in North America with fewer competitive matches than many Europe-based players.
The 38-year-old has suggested this could be a concern, explaining that he does not want to be a “burden” to Argentina if he is not fully fit and performing at his best. However, there will still be plenty of opportunities for him to build minutes, and being fresher than many rivals could also be viewed as an advantage.
Mascherano believes Messi will be part of Argentina squad
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has kept the door open for Messi, with regular discussions taking place between the two. If Messi gives the green light, he will be selected, as he continues to be a crucial figure in the No.10 role.
Mascherano, who shared the pitch with Messi for both Barcelona and Argentina and now coaches him at Inter Miami, sees no reason why the veteran star cannot help defend the world title.
When asked if Messi could feature in a sixth World Cup, Mascherano replied: “Yes, why not.” Doing so would place him alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa — provided they are chosen by Portugal and Mexico respectively.
Record chaser: Messi aiming for more history
Mascherano added, speaking from his daily experience working with Messi: “I like to stay close to the players and, above all, understand how they feel. No one knows better than them how their body is responding.”
On Argentina’s chances of retaining their crown, Mascherano said: “Argentina will go into the World Cup in the best possible way. They have been competing at a very high level for a long time and have extraordinary players.”
Messi already holds the record for most appearances at World Cup finals with 26 matches played. He looks set to increase that tally further, while also adding to his total of 196 international caps.
Previously discussing the possibility of playing in 2026, Messi said: “I hope I can be there. I’ve said before that I’d love to be there. At worst, I’ll be there watching it live, but it will be special. The World Cup is special for everyone, and especially for us because we experience it in a very different way.”
He also spoke about his conversations with Scaloni: “The truth is we’ve talked about it. He understands, and we’ve discussed it a lot. He always tells me he would like me to be there in any role. We have a relationship of great trust and can talk about everything.”
Messi tied to MLS contract through 2028
Messi has ruled himself out of a Finalissima clash between Argentina and European champions Spain, which would have seen him face 18-year-old Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal. That match is scheduled for March 27 at Lusail Stadium, the venue of the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar.
While international retirement remains a possibility as he weighs up his future, Messi is not planning to step away from club football anytime soon, having signed a contract extension with MLS Cup winners Inter Miami that runs through 2028.
