Messi’s Future: “Day by Day” Approach to 2026 World Cup After Argentina Win

In an emotional night that saw Lionel Messi net a brace in Argentina’s dominant 3-0 FIFA World Cup qualifying victory over Venezuela, the football icon left fans and pundits alike pondering his future. While the 38-year-old maestro delivered a performance reminiscent of his prime, his post-match comments regarding the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico remained tantalizingly vague.

An Emotional Farewell? Messi’s Tearful Home Performance

Thursday night’s match was widely speculated to be Messi’s final competitive appearance on home soil for Argentina. The atmosphere was electric, with passionate supporters showering their hero with adoration, many openly bidding farewell to the legend in the iconic blue and white stripes. Messi, visibly moved, was brought to tears, acknowledging the outpouring of love from the stands.

Despite the emotional weight of the occasion and his two goals, which showcased his enduring class, Messi offered no definitive commitment to the 2026 tournament. This stance follows previous statements where he hinted at concluding his World Cup journey after leading Argentina to glory in Qatar in 2022. However, his stellar form in MLS with Inter Miami and continued success with the Albiceleste suggest he still possesses the magic to be a formidable force on the global stage.

“Day by Day”: Messi’s Reflective Stance on 2026

Addressing the pressing question of his World Cup future, Messi adopted a cautious, “day by day” approach. “The same thing I said before: I don’t think I’ll play in the next World Cup. Given my age, the most logical thing is that it won’t happen,” Messi stated in a post-match interview. “I’m excited, eager, but I’m taking it day by day, match by match.”

He further elaborated on his philosophy, emphasizing self-awareness and enjoyment. “I’ll continue as I have been, taking it day by day, trying to feel good, and above all, being honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it. And if I’m not good, I have a bad time and I’d rather not be there. I’ll see. I haven’t made a decision about the World Cup.”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to commence on June 10, 2026, with Mexico hosting the opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca. The draw for the tournament will take place in Washington, D.C. on December 5, 2025.

Inter Miami and the Road Ahead: Contract Rumors and Preseason Plans

While the World Cup draw is still months away, Messi’s immediate focus remains on Inter Miami, where his current contract is set to expire at the end of the season. He expressed his ambition to lead Miami to their first MLS Cup final on December 6.

Intriguingly, Messi offered a glimpse into his potential 2026 plans, mentioning the upcoming preseason as part of his preparations, hinting at a possible contract extension with Inter Miami. “The thing is, nine months [until the World Cup] go by very quickly, but at the same time, it’s a long time,” he mused. “We finish the season at the end of the year, and hopefully we can be MLS champions. Then preseason comes, and I’ll have six months left. I’ll see how I feel.”

Messi will not join Argentina for their final World Cup qualifying match in Ecuador, citing his heavy workload with both club and country. However, he is expected to return to the pitch for Inter Miami on September 13 against Charlotte FC, as they embark on their crucial final nine MLS regular-season games before the MLS Cup Playoffs.

The football world will undoubtedly be watching closely as Messi navigates the coming months, with every match and every statement shaping the narrative of his illustrious career and the tantalizing possibility of one last dance on the World Cup stage.