Argentina midfielder Giovani Lo Celso has expressed his wish for Lionel Messi to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing the personal nature of the decision. Speaking about the national team captain’s future, Lo Celso noted that Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami, appears content both at his club and with the Argentine squad, and believes the veteran star will be part of next summer’s tournament.
In conversation with BolaVIP, Lo Celso reflected on Messi’s enthusiasm for playing internationally despite recent injuries. He said,
“He looks very happy, every time he goes to the national team he enjoys it, and at his club too, beyond this injury now. I hope he continues to be there, continues to contribute, because he gives a lot to the country through the national team.”
Lo Celso acknowledged the emotional aspect surrounding Messi’s decision, adding,
“It’s so personal… You have all the desire for him to be there, because you think of him more as a fan and not just as a teammate. But they are very personal decisions and he will define what he thinks is most convenient. One thing I’m sure of: everyone wants Leo to play in the World Cup and I want to believe that it’s going to be like that.”
Nicolas Otamendi Supports Messi Playing at 2026 Tournament
Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi also shared his perspective on Messi’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup during a recent interview with Radio La Red. Otamendi emphasized that Messi is carefully considering his options as the tournament approaches but expressed confidence that the Inter Miami forward will compete for Argentina.
Otamendi described Messi’s mindset and determination, stating,
“Obviously, as the World Cup gets closer, he will make his decision. But I don’t see Leo [Messi] missing out on the World Cup. Leo is Leo, the best player in soccer history. Right now, he’s living in the moment. He’s enjoying the Club World Cup. Leo’s focus is on continuing to compete, taking it month by month and seeing how he feels. He will make his decision based on how he feels physically, but you will never take away Leo’s desire to compete, to be there, to help the team. It’s in his DNA. Leo is different.”
Current Status and Anticipation Around Messi’s Decision
As Argentina prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi has not yet revealed whether he will participate. The 38-year-old superstar has been managing injuries, missing recent matches for Inter Miami, and is expected to decide about the World Cup after the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/soccer/mls/”>MLS season concludes. Meanwhile, the national team remains hopeful that their iconic captain will once again lead the squad on football‘s biggest stage.
Messi’s involvement would greatly impact Argentina’s chances in the tournament, given his unique talent and leadership qualities. Fans and teammates alike eagerly await his choice, recognizing the personal nature of the decision and respecting the time he is taking to consider his future.