Lionel Messi has revealed that he is contemplating his participation in the 2026 World Cup.
Lionel Messi has yet to decide whether he will participate in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina, citing the need to assess his physical condition.
The global showpiece, to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, will coincide with Messi's 38th birthday.
Messi previously indicated that the 2022 World Cup, where he captained Argentina to victory, would be his last. However, the former Barcelona player has kept playing for the national team since that Qatar victory.
Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano has expressed hope that Messi will make himself available for the 2026 tournament.
What Messi said about World Cup 2026 involvement
Messi acknowledges that the tournament is in his thoughts, but he is not ready to commit to playing in it.
The Inter Miami star stated the importance of playing consistently and feeling physically fit in the lead-up to the competition.
"I think about it and wait and see but I don't want to set that goal either," Messi told Simplemente Futbol. "I'll take it day by day and see how I feel physically above all else, and be honest with myself too.
"The truth is that when you start thinking about it, it's a long time away but at the same time it's going to pass quickly, no?
"For me this year is going to be important (for the World Cup), to be able to play with continuity, to feel good.
"Last year I joined up for pre-season and started a couple of games, then had to miss a few games through injuries or not feeling 100 per cent. This time pre-season has been good, I've started well and I feel good.
"It's a long season. It's started now and runs through to December without a break in June, on top of that we have the Club World Cup in June as well, another competition. There are lots of games."
Messi missed Argentina's recent World Cup qualifiers, with coach Lionel Scaloni urging patience regarding his participation.
What's next for Messi?
Messi could feature for Inter Miami in an MLS fixture against the Columbus Crew on Saturday in Cleveland.
Saturday's fixture is followed by the Concacaf Champions Cup semi-final first leg against the Vancouver Whitecaps on April 24.
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