The 2026 FIFA World Cup has once again reminded football supporters why Lionel Messi remains one of the greatest players.
At 39, the Argentina captain continues to dominate on the biggest stage, producing performances that have inspired his country’s march into the knockout rounds.
Messi has already rewritten the record books during the tournament. His hat-trick against Algeria, followed by a brace against Austria, made him the highest goalscorer in World Cup history.
Those displays have also helped Argentina secure their place in the last 32 with a game to spare. Naturally, attention has shifted beyond the current tournament.
Many expected this World Cup to mark the final chapter of Messi’s international career, especially after he previously suggested he would not feature four years from now.
However, recent comments have sparked fresh debate over whether the legendary forward could yet appear on football’s biggest stage again.
According to the Daily Mail, Lionel Messi refused to completely dismiss the possibility of playing at the 2030 FIFA World Cup when questioned about his future after Argentina’s latest victory.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had previously insisted he would “absolutely” not play in the next tournament.
This time, though, he offered a different response when reporters asked if he could feature in the competition. Messi replied:
“We’ll see what happens.”
Spain, Portugal and Morocco will co-host the 2030 World Cup, with the opening matches taking place in Uruguay, Paraguay and his native Argentina.
Although the brief response stopped well short of a commitment, it represented a notable shift from his earlier stance.
For now, Messi’s immediate focus remains on the current tournament. Argentina will attempt to seal the top spot in Group J when they face Jordan.
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