Since Argentina‘s 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar, there has been much speculation about Lionel Messi‘s potential retirement. Many wonder if Messi, who led Argentina to their first World Cup win in 36 years, will participate in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. While Argentina’s coaches and players have expressed their hopes, Messi has not made a definitive statement.
Messi has often mentioned considerations of age and fitness, but he hasn’t ruled out playing in the next World Cup. Recently, Argentine midfielder Alexis McAllister shared his thoughts on Messi’s potential participation in 2026. The Liverpool star expressed confidence in Messi’s ability to perform.
“If you want to know my thoughts, yes, I think he will be there (at the 2026 World Cup),” McAllister told ESPN. “Listening to him in interviews, seeing him in practice, and watching him play, I have no doubt he can easily play.”
McAllister acknowledged that the final decision would be personal and likely made closer to the World Cup. “It depends on how he feels when the time approaches. I hope he stays in the World Cup. To me, Leo is the best in the world. He can make a difference, even at his age.”
Messi is currently sidelined with an injury sustained in the Copa América final and hasn’t returned to the field. As a result, Argentina will play the World Cup qualifiers in September without him. McAllister discussed the impact of Messi’s absence.
“We always focus on the team,” McAllister said. “We know Leo won’t be here. We have to be stronger because the player who can save us is gone. Opponents are a bit scared when Leo is there, but we have players from big European clubs. We want to show our best and make the match difficult for our opponents.”
