Argentina captain and global football icon Lionel Messi has admitted that while the idea of playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup excites him, he will only participate if he feels fit enough to make a meaningful impact for his country.

Speaking in comments shared by football journalist Fabrizio Romano on X (formerly Twitter), the Inter Miami star said:

“I’m excited for the World Cup. But I don’t want to be a burden. I want to feel physically well, so I can be sure to help and contribute to the group. I will see, day by day, if I really feel good enough to participate the way I’d like.”

Messi, who will be 39 when the next World Cup kicks off across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, led Argentina to their long-awaited triumph in Qatar 2022—securing the one title that had eluded him throughout his glittering career.

His statement puts an end to growing speculation about whether the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will attempt to defend Argentina’s crown in 2026. Though now playing in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, Messi has continued to feature for the national team in qualifiers, showing flashes of his trademark brilliance.

The World Cup-winning captain has made it clear that sentiment alone will not drive his decision. “I want to feel that I can still give my best,” he said, emphasising that representing Argentina demands both physical sharpness and leadership.

For now, Messi remains focused on staying in top condition and guiding both club and country. Whether he appears in the 2026 World Cup may depend on his body, but for fans around the world, the dream of one last dance with La Pulga is still very much alive.