Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni backs Lionel Messi to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In an interview with Christian Vieri’s Bobo TV, the manager stated that he expects to see his talisman play in the 2026 edition of the tournament: “Messi played with his heart in this [2022] World Cup, he was unstoppable.”
Scaloni continued: “Seeing him up close is something impossible to describe, if I told you the things he does in training you wouldn’t believe me. He’s crazy. I told Leo that as long as he’s happy on the pitch, he should continue playing as long as he can. He showed us that there are no limits in football, and that is amazing.”
Messi led La Albiceleste to its third World Cup title in their country’s history, beating France on penalties in a heart-stopping final.
Given the 36-year-old’s current form, it’s easy to see how he’ll be able to continue to play at a high level.
The 2026 World Cup is three years away. It’s not inconceivable to believe that the former Barcelona forward could play in the tournament.
Lionel Messi’s 2024 with Inter Miami
Inter Miami has big plans for 2024.
Sporting Director Chris Henderson has stated that the team plans on revamping its roster: “We’re looking at everything to [improve the squad.] We have high hopes for 2024, and we want to show what we can do as a club.”
The focal point of the new-look Miami will be Messi.
Like Scaloni said, the Argentine is still playing at a high level. Through three months’ worth of games for Inter Miami this year, Messi had a big impact, ending the year with 14 G/A in all competitions. Furthermore, the midfielder helped the Herons to their first title in club history in the summer.
As the next season approaches, despite Messi getting older, he still has the qualities of a world-class player.
Miami’s 2024 will depend on how much they can get out of the Argentine.
With high hopes of winning more silverware, the Herons will look to Messi to carry them through.