Lionel Messi gave his honest response when questioned about his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner played a crucial role in Argentina's FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022.
Messi to create record at FIFA World Cup 2026
The Inter Miami skipper looks on course to become the only two players to have participate in six world Cups along with Cristiano Ronaldo. Considered as the greatest of all time, he still remains Argentina's best player even at the age of 38.
When asked about the Upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, He claimed that he does not want to be a liability and wants to feel good about his physical state.
Lionel Messi on his participation at FIFA World Cup 2026
Lionel Messi noted how the MLS season is different from European Leagues, as he has to maintain his fitness during the off-season. The Argentine icon told Spanish outlet:
"Yes, obviously yes, it is a special World Cup, it is special to play with the national team and more important, official competitions and more what a World Cup means and after having won it too. But a little bit what I was telling you, I don't want to be a burden, so to speak. I want to feel good physically, be sure that I can help and contribute things to the group, to the squad."
He added:
"Our season is different from Europe. We are going to have a preseason involved, few games until we reach the World Cup date and see on a day-to-day basis if I really feel good physically to be the way I would like to be and be able to participate. But obviously aware that it is a World Cup and it is special and that the World Cup is the biggest thing there is in terms of competition. So excited but carrying it with the day to day."
Lionel Messi's legendary carrer
Lionel Messi has won every single thing in his illustrious career with 46 trophies. Success in the World Cup was missing in his career, but he finally won the biggest trophy in world football in 2022.