Argentina captain Lionel Messi is not thinking about his international future after the Copa América next year, as he aims to lead his country in defending its continental title in the tournament taking place in the United States. The 36-year-old player stated earlier this year that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he guided Argentina to its third title, would be his last.
Despite knowing he might not be in ideal physical condition for the 2026 World Cup, he does not currently rule out playing in the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, as he is enjoying his best moments with Argentina. Messi told ESPN, "As long as I feel good and I am able to continue performing, I will do so (continue playing with Argentina). Everything I am thinking about today is reaching the Copa América and being able to participate in the tournament."
He added, "After that, time will tell whether I will participate in the World Cup or not. I will be 39 years old, which usually doesn’t allow me to play in a World Cup." He concluded, "It seemed that I was going to retire after the 2022 World Cup, but now I want to be with the team more than ever. We are going through an exceptional moment, and I want to enjoy it to the fullest, without thinking about the next two or three years which is a long time in football."
