Will he or won’t he? It is the question dominating global football. Following his fairy-tale triumph in Qatar, Lionel Messi has been notoriously non-committal about defending his crown in North America. However, sources close to the Argentine camp indicate that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is nearing a final decision regarding his participation in the 2026 World Cup.
Managing Minutes and Expectations
Currently playing his club football in MLS, Messi has carefully managed his physical workload. If he feels his body can withstand the rigors of an expanded, month-long tournament, the allure of leading Argentina one final time might be too strong to ignore. His presence alone would instantly elevate the profile of the 2026 games to unprecedented heights.
