“It’s something extraordinary to play in a World Cup. I would love to participate next year, as long as my body allows it,” Messi told NBC News. The forward, who recently extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2028, acknowledged that his age is becoming a factor.
“I will assess my fitness day by day during the preseason with Inter Miami,” said the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who will turn 39 during next year’s World Cup. “I will evaluate whether I can be 100 percent fit and valuable for Argentina. After that, I will make a decision about my participation.”
Messi feels the impact of time. “As you get older, you lose things that you take for granted as a young player. For example, speed, reaction time, and quick decision-making. Sometimes your mind is faster than your body. But I believe I am adapting well to this new reality.”
Regardless, Messi is eager to defend the world title with Argentina. “It was a dream to become world champion in 2022. It’s true that the world title was the only thing missing from my career. Every player’s dream is to become a world champion.”
Messi considers his career a success after winning the world title. “I am grateful to my family, friends, and all of Argentina for allowing me to experience that. It’s always amazing to play for the national team. Hopefully, God will allow me to do that again next year at the World Cup.”
It is expected that Messi will officially retire from international football after the World Cup. The superstar confirmed in September, following a 3-0 victory over Venezuela in Buenos Aires, that this match was his last competitive game on home soil.
Argentina has convincingly qualified for the World Cup as the group winner of the South American qualifying round. The tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico kicks off on June 11 and concludes on July 19 next year.
