Before the start of the FIFA World Cup 2022, the fans all around the world expressed their wish to see the two GOATs of football - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo- to play final and lift the World Cup. While their wish to see Ronaldo winning the World Cup were crushed after Portugal's defeat against Morocco in quarterfinals, their dream of seeing Lionel Messi with the cup is still alive as the Argentina is set to play in the semi-finals against Croatia. While many thinks this is the last opportunity for the 35-year-old to clinch the trophy, many are hoping to see the magician again in 2026 edition.
But will Messi play the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Unfortunately, the answer is likely to be a no. Ahead of the start of the 2022 World Cup, Messi had said that it is most likely his final World Cup.
Also Read: Will Cristiano Ronaldo play FIFA World Cup 2026?
The Argentine has represented his country in 5 editions of the World Cup. The other factor is Messi's age. He is 35-year-old now and by 2026, he will turn 39. The former Barcelona player is unlikely to play for this long so we can expect this World Cup to be his last one.
Fans will be hoping to see the legendary player lift the coveted title on December 18.