2023-12-02 12:07:34
A final World Cup at 39? In any case, this is the dream of eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi. While we thought we would see him for the last time on the pitch of a World Cup last December, when he lifted the most prestigious trophy after the final against the Blues, the Argentinian could well be there in 2026.
“Time will tell if I will be there or not. I am going to reach an age at which I should normally no longer be able to play in a World Cup,” began the former Barcelona and Parisian in an interview for the Star + channel and ESPN, before admitting his desire to compete in one last World Cup. “I already said I didn’t think I’d be there. It looked like I would retire after the last World Cup, but it’s quite the opposite. Now I want to be there more than ever,” he assured.
“Being realistic, it will be difficult”
If he plays in the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada, the Inter Miami player would then be 39 years old. “Given my age, the most normal thing would be for me not to be there. Afterwards, maybe we will do well at the Copa America, and everything will come together for me to continue. Maybe not. Being realistic, it will be difficult,” nuanced the Argentinian international, who does not give in. “I’m not thinking about the World Cup and I’m not saying 100% that I won’t be there. Anything can happen,” he told Star +.
Before perhaps aiming for the Grail for a second time in 2026, he will first try to win his second Copa America with the Albiceleste next year. A competition which will take place in the United States, and whose final will be played… in his new city, Miami.
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