Lionel Messi aims to shine at Copa América 2021, keeping options open for 2026 World Cup
Lionel Messi remains focused on participating in the upcoming Copa América in the USA, but leaves the possibility open for a potential appearance at the 2026 World Cup for Argentina, as revealed in an ESPN/Star+ documentary Champions, A Year Later
Lionel Messi is determined to play in the upcoming Copa América in the USA, and while he hasn't dismissed the possibility of appearing in the 2026 World Cup for Argentina, his focus at the moment is solely on preparing for the Copa América. He stated in an ESPN/Star+ documentary "Champions, A Year Later" that as long as he feels good and is able to perform, he intends to continue playing for Argentina.
I will have to wait and see if I will be able to participate in the World Cup. At 39 years old, it is not typical for me to compete at that level. However, I will always give my best and have a good sense of when I am capable of performing at that level.
Messi led Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022 on his fifth attempt, also winning the Golden Ball for the tournament's best player and scoring two goals in the final against France. This triumph, combined with the 2021 Copa América victory, was particularly meaningful after years of heartbreak in three consecutive major final losses - the 2014 World Cup, 2015 Copa, and 2016 Copa.
"After enduring years of struggle, I now find myself in a unique moment that I've never before experienced, and I want to savor every bit of it," Messi expressed. "I feel a strong sense of belonging with this united and resilient group. It's a team that truly relishes being together. I aim to make the most of this, without worrying about the distant future, which in football terms is quite a long time."
Since winning the World Cup in Qatar, Messi has moved across the Atlantic, joining MLS club Inter Miami and prompting a new wave of American interest in soccer.
Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami this summer.
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He acknowledged that he was conscious of the fact that he joined the MLS, which he referred to as a "smaller league," but emphasized that it's a personal matter and depends on how one deals with it and competes.
Since Messi joined in July, Inter Miami went on a club-record 12-game unbeaten run and secured its first ever trophy, the Leagues Cup. However, the team ended the season with a winless streak of seven games, during which Messi was absent at times due to injury.
"Perhaps we will succeed in the Copa América and I will be able to continue. Or perhaps not. It's difficult," Messi commented.
"Becoming a world champion has given me a sense of peace, knowing that in my profession, I am capable of achieving anything."
