"In Principle, I'm Finished": Unlikelihood of Messi's Participation in 2026 World Cup
Lionel Messi Unlikely to Play in 2026 World Cup, Confirms Retirement Decision
BEIJING—Lionel Messi, the captain of Argentina's national team, has confirmed that last year's
World Cup in Qatar was his final appearance in the prestigious tournament. Despite hopes from fans and compatriots that he might reconsider, the 35-year-old forward expressed his decision not to participate in the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
During an interview with Titan Sports prior to Argentina's friendly match against Australia in Beijing, Messi stated, "I think not. This was my last World Cup. I'll see how things go, but in principle, I won't go to the next
World Cup."
In addition to discussing his retirement from international competition, Messi also took the opportunity to pay tribute to his former coach at Barcelona, Pep Guardiola. The renowned footballer, who recently completed a move from Paris St Germain to Inter Miami in the United States, expressed his happiness for Guardiola's success in winning the UEFA Champions League with
Manchester City.
Messi shared, "I talk a lot with Pep as we still maintain frequent contact. I am very happy about his achievement, winning the recent UEFA Champions League. He is the best coach in the world, and although, in my opinion, he didn't need to win this Champions League title to prove that, it further demonstrates that he is the world's top coach, which is an achievement he deserves."
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