Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister hints at Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Lionel Messi finally achieved his lifelong dream of lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy in 2022. The showpiece event which was held in Qatar became witness to one of the most extraordinary tournament displays by the great man. His nation, Argentina beat France in the final on penalties to be crowned world champions for a third time. Since then, Messi has maintained his stance of not prolonging his international career till the 2026 edition.

With less than two years to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, fans have started speculating about the participation of Lionel Messi in the event. His move to Inter Miami last year was viewed by many as a sign of him promoting the nation’s case for the World Cup and also reconsidering his decision about continuing with the Argentina National Team. Messi will be 39 by the time the 2026 World Cup ends which will inevitably involve a lot of thought process on his part.

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Recent years have erased the pains of Lionel Messi’s early international career. He achieved the first-ever success with his nation at the 2021 Copa America in Brazil. The following year he led his team to the Finalissima and FIFA World Cup trophies. The latest accolade in the cabinet of the former Barcelona man was the 2024 Copa America title.

Alexis Mac Allister provides his view on Lionel Messi and the 2026 World Cup

The rest of the Argentinian squad will desperately want their captain to be present in the North American continent. Liverpool’s midfield maestro, Alexis Mac Allister shared his thoughts on the situation, “If you ask my feelings, yes. I think he will be there. I have no doubt that he could easily be there. But, well, it’s a very personal decision.” Mac Allister also reiterated the fact that the final call will most likely be made close to the tournament.

Coach, Lionel Scaloni will have to start exploring possibilities without Lionel Messi shortly. His team has shown enough grit and resilience to tackle Messi’s absence. The world champions will have their next test without Lionel Messi in the upcoming South American World Cup qualifiers. Scaloni should be able to obtain a decent idea of the future of the national team which unfortunately might not have the presence of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.