Lionel Messi. The name itself evokes a tapestry of unparalleled skill, breathtaking goals, and a legacy that transcends mere sport. For nearly two decades, he has been the undisputed maestro, orchestrating victories and defying expectations. Yet, even for a player often described in almost mythical terms, time remains the one undefeated opponent. As Argentina marches through CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, a subtle yet profound question lingers: will the footballing titan, at 38 years young, make it to the 2026 World Cup?
The Persistent Whisper of Time and Toll
Recently, Messi delivered another masterclass, netting two goals in a 3-0 victory against Venezuela – a performance that could easily fool casual observers into believing he’s still in his prime. Indeed, his impact for both Argentina and Inter Miami remains undeniable. He commands the pitch, dictates play, and produces moments of magic that few others can even dream of. However, beneath the surface of these dazzling displays, a different narrative is quietly unfolding: the cumulative toll of a grueling career.
Injuries, once a rare inconvenience, are now becoming more frequent companions. Muscular issues, particularly, have prompted Messi to miss several games for Inter Miami, highlighting a physical reality that even his extraordinary talent cannot entirely circumvent. It`s a testament to his dedication that he continues to perform at such a high level, but also a stark reminder that the human body has its limits.
Messi`s Candid Reflection: An Unscripted Future
Following his recent performance, Messi himself offered a remarkably candid assessment of his future, casting a thoughtful shadow over his 2026 World Cup prospects.
“Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, match by match, going by how I feel. Day by day, trying to feel good and above all, being honest with myself.”
He continued, “When I feel good, I enjoy it. But when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time, so I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good. So, we’ll see. I haven’t made a decision about the World Cup. Match by match, I’ll finish the [MLS] season, then I’ll have preseason, and there will be six months left. So, we’ll see how I feel. Hopefully, I’ll have a good preseason in 2026, and finish this MLS season well, and then I’ll decide.”
This isn`t the declaration of a player on the verge of immediate retirement, but rather the measured perspective of a seasoned professional acutely aware of his body`s signals. It`s a refreshingly honest take, devoid of the usual sporting clichés, and grounds the extraordinary Messi in a very human reality. The goal, he emphasized, is to play, but not at the expense of his well-being or his ability to contribute meaningfully.
The Weight of History: Six World Cups?
Should Messi defy the “most logical thing” and feature for Argentina in 2026, he would join an elite club, potentially alongside long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, as one of the few players to participate in six different FIFA World Cups. This unprecedented longevity would further cement his legend, adding another astonishing footnote to a career already overflowing with records. However, the path to such a milestone is not merely one of desire, but of sustained physical capacity and peak performance.
The football world has become accustomed to Messi`s almost superhuman feats. A World Cup without his presence would undoubtedly feel, as many speculate, “quite odd.” It would mark the end of an era, a generational shift in a sport that has been undeniably defined by his brilliance for so long. For fans, the prospect of his absence is tinged with a melancholic understanding that all great journeys eventually reach their destination.
Beyond the Field: A Legacy Secured, Regardless
As the CONMEBOL qualifiers progress and the countdown to 2026 begins, every touch, every pass, every goal from Messi will be scrutinized not just for its immediate impact, but for its implications for his future. His decision will not be about proving anything; his legacy is already etched in stone, adorned with World Cup glory, numerous Ballon d`Or awards, and a highlight reel that could fill libraries.
Instead, his contemplation reflects a commitment to himself, his team, and the integrity of his performance. It`s a stark reminder that even the greatest among us are subject to the same biological constraints. Whether he ultimately takes the field in 2026 or chooses to transition into the next chapter of his life, Lionel Messi`s story will forever be one of unparalleled achievement, a benchmark against which future generations of footballers will be measured. The question is not if he *can* still play, but if he *should* – and that, as he eloquently puts it, is a decision he`ll make “day by day.”
Dominic Ashworth