Former Argentina star Juan Sebastian Veron has offered an honest opinion on whether Lionel Messi will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi, a key player for Inter Miami, played a vital role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory, raising questions about his future appearances for the national team as he approaches his late 30s.
At 38 years old, Messi faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the 2026 tournament. His current contract with Inter Miami ends in December 2025, which could leave him without club football ahead of the summer World Cup. Despite these challenges, Veron remains confident about Messi’s chances of featuring in the next World Cup and points out that the competition’s intensity will surpass what Messi regularly experiences in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Veron’s Perspective on Messi’s Potential in 2026
Speaking to TyC Sports, Veron highlighted both the difficulties and unique strengths Messi brings to the game as he ages:
“That will depend on him. It’s clear that he might find it more difficult against opponents and teams with different paces, but these are issues that a player like Messi can resolve in a different way, and better, and above all, well.”
—Juan Sebastian Veron, Former Argentina Footballer
Throughout his career with Argentina, Messi has appeared in 193 matches and scored 112 goals, underscoring his enduring influence at the international level. His recent participation with Inter Miami in the FIFA Club World Cup ended in a heavy 4-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), the UEFA Champions League winners, in the round of 16.
Messi’s Views on the Current Best Team After Club World Cup Defeat
Following Inter Miami’s exit from the Club World Cup, Lionel Messi declared PSG as the top team worldwide. Having played for PSG between 2021 and 2023, Messi praised the French club’s quality, especially after Miami’s defeat in the round of 16 by a strong PSG side.
Messi commented on PSG’s strength during an interview with Sporting News:
“PSG is the best team in the world, without a doubt. They beat Inter in the Champions League final 4 or 5-0, I don’t remember exactly. The result here is normal, we’re not playing at the same level.”
—Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Forward
During his time at PSG, Messi made 75 appearances, scoring 32 goals and assisting 35 others. While he won the Ligue 1 title twice, the Champions League trophy eluded him at Parc des Princes.
PSG is now preparing to face Bayern Munich in the Club World Cup quarter-finals scheduled for July 5, demonstrating their ongoing status among elite global teams.
Looking Ahead: Messi’s Future and the 2026 World Cup
Messi’s potential appearance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains a topic of great interest. Veron’s remarks suggest that while the physical demands of the tournament will increase due to Messi’s age, the player’s exceptional skill and adaptability could overcome these challenges. Additionally, Messi’s contract situation and form in club football will be crucial factors influencing his selection.
The outcome of Messi’s participation will not only affect Argentina’s prospects but also carry significant weight for football fans worldwide eager to witness one of the sport’s greatest talents extend his international legacy. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, all eyes will remain on Messi’s fitness, club commitments, and motivation to compete once more on the grandest stage.