'It's in his DNA' - Lionel Messi's Argentina team-mate makes hopeful 2026 World Cup claim as Inter Miami star continues to shine on global stage

Messi has not yet made clear whether he will play in USA next summer, after he lifted the trophy in Qatar in 2022. His team-mate Nicolas Otamendi is confident he will be there, however.

Otamendi told Radio La Red: "Obviously, as the World Cup gets closer, he will make his decision. But I don't see Leo missing out on the World Cup. Leo is Leo, the best player in soccer history."

Messi was said to have completed football when inspiring Argentina's World Cup victory in 2022, scoring twice in the final as they beat France on penalties. He will turn 39 during next summer's tournament, though, and his involvement is far from certain.

Argentina are 10 points clear of second-place Ecuador in the CONMEBOL qualification standings and have booked their place at the tournament. They finish their campaign with games against Venezuela and Ecuador in September.