Lionel Messi, who turned 36 years old, does not participate in the Argentina national team at the 2024 World Cup.

Lionel MessiPhoto: Niviere David/ABACAPRESS.COM / Shutterstock Editorial / Profimedia

Lionel Messi wants to play in the Copa America first, and then make a decision about the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi was the man who led Argentina to the World Cup title in Qatar and Lionel Scaloni hopes he can rely on him at the 2026 World Cup.

The Inter Miami player turned 36 years old and said that he is not sure if he will play at the next World Cup.

The Argentine said that at the moment his priority is the Copa America, where the Pumas will defend their title.

“I want to go to the next Copa America in good conditions, and then we’ll see, depending on how I present myself.

I am not thinking about the World Cup in 2026 yet. It’s been years and we have to see how I feel, I’ll take it day by day.” – said Lionel Messi, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reports.