Lionel Messi will be 39 when the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, raising questions about his availability. The Argentina captain has missed several national team matches due to injury. With less than a year to go, doubts remain over whether coach Lionel Scaloni will select him for the tournament, where Argentina will defend their title.
Messi was vital in Qatar, guiding Argentina to victory over France in a penalty shootout. Recently, teammate Angel Di Maria addressed Messi’s potential participation in an interview with La Nacional. His response left little room for doubt.
Di Maria insisted, “Yes, yes. No matter what shape he’s in, no matter what happens, Leo has to play in the World Cup. That’s him, and he also keeps the national team growing and keeps people excited. That’s him. It’s like when Diego (Maradona) was there.”
He went further, describing Messi as “an alien, a phenomenon” and emphasized the importance of cherishing his presence. Di Maria admitted that he even bought an MLS season ticket just to keep watching Messi at Inter Miami.
The World Cup winner returned from injury on Sunday. Coming off the bench, Messi scored and assisted Luis Suarez in Inter Miami’s 3-1 win over LA Galaxy.
Head coach Javier Mascherano acknowledged Messi’s determination but stressed caution. “Leo always wants to play. He is happiest when he’s on the field, but sometimes we have to slow him down. He knows his body better than anyone, and it’s about regaining the right sensations for what’s ahead,” Mascherano said.
As Argentina looks toward 2026, Messi’s role remains uncertain. Yet, for Di Maria and millions of fans, his presence—whether at peak form or not—seems non-negotiable.
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