BARCELONA: Lionel Messi has refused to confirm whether he will lead Argentina to defend its World Cup trophy next year.
The defending champions became the first team from South America to qualify for the tournament when Bolivia drew 0-0 with Hungary on March 25.
Despite having 195 caps for Argentina and scoring 114 goals, Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has yet to announce whether he will wear the national jersey next season.
In an interview with Spanish outlet SPORT, the Inter Miami star admitted he “didn’t want to be a burden” to the Argentine team.
“It’s something special to play with the national team, especially in a big official tournament, let alone after winning the World Cup.
“But like I said, I don’t want to be a burden. I want to feel physically fit and confident that I can help and contribute to the team,” Messi said.
Messi highlighted the difference in the MLS schedule with European leagues as a key factor.
“Our season is different to the European season. We will have a pre-season in between, with a few matches before the World Cup, and we will see day by day whether I really feel fit enough to be at the level I want to be and be able to participate in this tournament,” he said.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni named Messi in his squad for this international break, but admitted his team is now also preparing for a possible future without the icon.
“The team is now in a phase where it can play with or without Leo, something that used to be more complicated because we had to change some players,” Scaloni said.
Messi also made a secret visit to Barcelona on his way to Alicante for Argentina training, visiting the newly renovated Nou Camp for the first time since the renovations.
Speaking about his dream of returning to the Catalan club, Messi said: “I really want to go back. We miss Barcelona a lot, the children and the wife often talk about life there.
“We have a house and everything, that’s what we wanted. I really miss all the moments at Barca. Maybe now I enjoy it more than when I was still playing.”
Messi’s decision on whether to participate in the 2026 World Cup is now a big question mark for Argentine fans and the football world.