Soccer fans around the world eagerly await Lionel Messi ’s decision on playing in the 2026 World Cup. The wait could continue until the end of this year. Messi, the Argentine World Cup champion and Inter Miami star, said he thinks about playing in the next World Cup but will first consider his health before reaching a final decision.

Lionel Messi wants to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and defend the crown with the Argentina football team, but he is still not sure whether he will take part in the tournament. Here’s what he said on his possible appearance.

Messi has a record 112 goals in 191 caps for Argentina. He holds the record for most appearances (26) at World Cup finals and is third all-time for goals (13). He was awarded the Golden Ball as the best overall player at the 2022 World Cup and captained the side to the Copa America a year ago.