‘I don’t want to be a burden’

Argentina superstar Lionel Messi has expressed both excitement and caution about the possibility of playing in the 2026 World Cup. 

In an interview with Sport, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner said he remains eager but will carefully assess his fitness and ability to contribute.

"I don't want to be, in quotes, a burden. I want to feel physically fit, to be sure that I can help and contribute to the team," Messi said.

The Inter Miami captain pointed out that the Major League Soccer (MLS) calendar presents different challenges compared to Europe. "The MLS season is different from the European one; there will be a preseason and few matches leading up to that date," he explained. "I want to see day by day if I really feel good enough to be where I want to be and be able to participate."

Reflecting on what another World Cup would mean, Messi called it "special." "It's the greatest thing there is. Playing with the national team in important competitions, and on top of that, after having won it. I'm excited, but I'm taking it calmly," he shared.

Meanwhile, the Argentine captain has joined the squad in Alicante ahead of their upcoming friendly against Angola. The match will take place on Friday at 10pm, Bangladesh Time, in Luanda.