Argentina legend Lionel Messi says playing at the 2026 World Cup will be “difficult”

Argentina legend Lionel Messi has admitted that playing at the 2026 World Cup will be difficult due to his age.

Messi was in scintillating form during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as he inspired Argentina to glory in the Middle East.

Prior to the tournament, Messi stated that the 2022 edition will be his last World Cup, but after Argentina tasted success, he has not completely ruled out helping his country defend their title in three years’ time.

However, the Paris Saint Germain forward did admit it will be difficult due to his age.

In a recent interview, Messi told Argentine media outlet Diario Ole: “Because of age it'll be difficult to make 2026.

“I love playing football and while I feel like I'm in good shape and enjoying this, I'm going to keep at it.

“It seems like a long time until the next World Cup, but it depends on how my career is going.”

Last month, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni also spoke about the likelihood of Messi playing in the tournament which will be held across the United States of America, Canada and Mexico.

He said: “I think Messi can make it to the next World Cup.

“It will depend a lot on what he wants and what happens over time, that he feels good.

“The doors will always be open. He is happy on the pitch, and for us [it] would be good.”

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After scoring twice in the final against France and being named player of the tournament, Messi spoke about his emotions when he was about to lift the trophy.

He said: “I saw the cup there, so close, that I was drawn to be near it, touch it, kiss it. It was such an exciting feeling to say ‘it's done’.

“To this day it remains such an exciting moment. Even when I see it now, I enjoy it more than I did at that moment.

“Things have calmed down since, so it's more exciting for me. I see a lot of videos on social media now.”

Messi is now looking to help PSG defend their Ligue 1 title whilst also trying to win the club their first-ever Champions League trophy.