Messi aims to write a final chapter in the World Cup

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, who plays for Inter Miami in the United States, admitted his dream of participating in the 2026 World Cup with his national team, affirming that he will do everything necessary to be ready for the tournament, which will see him turn 39. The Argentine captain and Inter Miami player told NBC News that he hopes to be able to contribute to his country's success in the upcoming World Cup, explaining: "I would love to play in the World Cup. I'll take it one day at a time during preseason with Inter Miami, and I'll see if I can be in top form to help the national team, and then I'll make a decision." Messi boasts 195 international caps for Argentina since his debut in 2005, scoring 114 goals and providing 63 assists. He has won the World Cup, two Copa América titles, and an Olympic gold medal in 2008, in addition to the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup. The veteran Argentine star affirmed that defending the World Cup title is "amazing," considering playing for the national team "still a great dream, especially in major tournaments." If he participates, Messi will be among the oldest players in World Cup history, as he will be 39 years old when the tournament kicks off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Seventeen players aged 39 or older have previously participated in the tournament, including Canadian Atiba Hutchinson and Portuguese Pepe in the Qatar 2022 edition. Cameroonian Roger Milla holds the record for the oldest outfield player in World Cup history at 42, while Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary holds the record for the oldest player to participate at 45. Messi continues his career with Inter Miami after renewing his contract with the team for three more years, extending it until the end of 2028. He will be 41 years old at the end of the contract and is not currently considering retirement. His goal remains to lead the team to titles. Inter Miami finished the regular season in second place in the Eastern Conference and defeated Nashville 3-1 in the first round of the playoffs, with Messi scoring two goals in that match.