Can Messi Defy Time and Make It to the 2026 World Cup?

Lionel Messi is facing the biggest question of his final playing years — can he make it to the 2026 World Cup? After conquering the footballing world in Qatar, many believed that was the perfect time to bow out. Instead, the Argentine legend chose to continue, but his body is beginning to protest. Goal reports that Messi has played just three full matches in 2025 and missed key international fixtures due to recurring injuries.

Even with a lighter workload at Inter Miami, the physical toll is evident. His brilliant vision and decision-making remain intact, but physically, he no longer dominates. Still, Messi isn’t ready to walk away.

“I’m enjoying this moment,” he said after a hat-trick against Bolivia, savoring the camaraderie with his younger teammates and the love of the fans.

But enjoyment may not be enough. Both Inter Miami and the Argentine FA tread carefully, aware that one wrong move could end it all. Whispers of a farewell return to Barcelona only add to the drama. Messi, however, stays silent on 2026 — a sign that, for once, the decision might be out of his hands.