Lionel Messi 'on another planet' with Diego Maradona as Angel Di Maria insists Argentina & Inter Miami superstar 'has to play at 2026 World Cup no matter what'

Messi has missed several recent Argentina games through injury, sparking doubts about his ability to remain at the top level. With less than a year to go before the World Cup, many wondered whether Lionel Scaloni could afford to rely on the Inter Miami star. But Di Maria believes the debate is meaningless, as Messi remains the heartbeat of Argentina’s national team, with La Albiceleste looking to defend their World Championship.

In an interview with La Nacional, Di Maria said: "Yes, yes. No matter what shape he’s in, no matter what happens, Leo has to play in the World Cup, no matter what. That's him, and he also keeps the national team growing and keeps people excited. That's him. It's like when Diego (Maradona) was there.

"It's them, and there's no one else. They're from another planet; they're not from here. We have to keep enjoying it, and hopefully it'll be in the best shape possible. Leo is an alien. He’s a phenomenon—let’s not waste the chance to keep watching him. I watch Inter Miami games because I want to keep watching. I never watched MLS, and now I have a season ticket just to watch it."

Messi completed his ultimate dream close to three years ago when he led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup trophy after years of waiting. It was the only title that had evaded him, and it was expected that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner would retire on a high. However, he did not do that as he led La Albiceleste to their second consecutive Copa America title. For Di Maria, the World Cup stage would not feel complete without the No.10 leading the way.

Argentina will have Messi as a starter any day of the week unless the 38-year-old himself decides to call it a day. Argentina still have quite a few games to contend with before they head to North America for the 2026 World Cup.