Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup is still not completely confirmed and fans will have to wait for an official announcement. However, recent comments from national team coach Javier Mascherano have reignited excitement across the football world.
After Inter Miami’s preseason match in Colombia during a trip to South America, Mascherano answered a question everyone had, and his response quickly made headlines.
Will Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?
Mascherano did not hesitate when asked about Messi and upcoming tournaments in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
“Yes, why not?” he answered with a candid answer that immediately sparked hope among fans desperate to see the Argentine legend defend his title.
“I like to be close to the players and above all to understand how they feel. No one knows better than them how their bodies are reacting,” Mascherano explained, referring to the demanding calendar and the importance of managing the physical demands throughout the season.
He also expressed confidence in the future of the national team, saying, “Argentina will approach the World Cup in the best possible way. They have been competing at a very high level for a long time and have extraordinary players.”
Many believe that Messi will eventually be part of manager Lionel Scaloni’s final squad, but there is still no official confirmation and the mystery could continue into the weeks before the tournament begins.
If Messi takes part, he will join Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa (if selected by Mexico) as the only players to appear in six World Cups.
With 26 matches already played at the World Cup, Messi currently stands as the player with the most appearances in the competition’s history, another notable milestone in a career that may not be over yet.
