Messi Has “Desire” to Play in 2026 World Cup, Says Suarez

MIAMI (Pitchside HQ) — Lionel Messi has not publicly committed to playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but according to longtime friend and Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez, the Argentine superstar still carries the desire to represent his country on the sport’s biggest stage.

Now 36, and turning 38 before the tournament kicks off in North America, Messi has yet to officially declare whether he will be part of Argentina’s title defense. However, in an interview with Spanish outlet El País, Suarez suggested the drive to compete again for La Albiceleste remains alive within the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

“We do talk about it—jokingly, many times—but he also has that desire to play in next year’s World Cup,” Suarez told El País. “Obviously, after being away from the national team for a while, that desire fades more for me than for him. But we haven’t talked about retirement seriously yet.”

Messi, who debuted on the World Cup stage as a teenager in 2006, cemented his legacy with a heroic campaign at Qatar 2022, earning MVP honors and leading Argentina to a dramatic triumph over France in the final.

Argentina have already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The question now looming over fans and pundits alike is whether Messi will aim for one final run at international glory.

“No, no, no, I don’t ask him directly,” Suarez added. “I know how he is. Time will tell.”

Suarez, 38, who also has a storied international career with Uruguay, acknowledged that the end of an era is nearing for both players. Still, Messi’s enduring passion to wear the sky blue and white shirt once more appears undimmed.

Should Messi choose to participate, the 2026 World Cup would mark his sixth appearance in the tournament—a milestone only a handful of players in history have achieved.