Lionel Messi has given a hopeful indication about playing in the 2026 World Cup. After winning the 2022 Qatar World Cup, his participation in the next edition had remained uncertain. But in a recent promotional video by Adidas, Messi hinted at aiming for another World Cup title.
In the video released by the Argentine Football Association (AFA), coach Lionel Scaloni, Ángel Di María, and AFA President Claudio Tapia are seen discussing their goal of winning a fourth World Cup. At the end of the video, Tapia says, “I want the fourth one.” Messi then steps forward, picks up some cards and says, “I want it too.” This has been interpreted by Argentine media as a positive sign that Messi plans to play in 2026.
In a recent interview, Messi also stated that the 2026 World Cup would be special for him and that he would play if he is fully fit. He said that winning a World Cup is the greatest achievement for any footballer.
Meanwhile, Argentina will play a friendly match against Angola on November 14. Messi has been named in the squad, but it is still uncertain whether he will play, as he is currently focused on MLS playoffs with Inter Miami.