Inter Miami star Lionel Messi insists he wants to be at 2026 World Cup ‘more than ever’ but admits his sole focus is defending Argentina’s Copa America crown

The 36-year-old Argentinian legend has outlined his desire to play in the 2026 World Cup, which is set to be hosted in the United States and Mexico, however admits he will prioritise the Copa America first.

Speaking on the Star+ documentary 'Champions, a year later', via ESPN, Messi outlined his intentions to continue playing tournament football for his country. "Today the only thing I think about is getting to the Copa America well and being able to compete in it. Fighting it again like we always did, trying to be champions. Then time will tell if I'm there [at the World Cup] or not. I'm going to arrive at an age [39 years old] that I normally wouldn't be able to play in the World Cup. I said that I don't think I'm going to be there. It seemed that after the World Cup I was retiring and quite the opposite. Now I want to be there more than ever. [But] I'm not thinking about the World Cup and I'm not saying 100 percent that I won't be there because anything can happen. Given my age, the most normal thing is that I won't be there. Then we'll see to what extent. Maybe we do well in the Copa America and it happens. everything so that we continue. Maybe not. Being realistic it is difficult."

Messi secured the 2022 Qatar World Cup victory against France last December, just a year after he won his first major international honour having beaten Brazil on penalties in the Copa America final. The World Cup was also secured on penalties, after the dramatic showdown against his former Paris Saint-Germain teammate Kylian Mbappe ended 3-3 after extra-time.

The former Barcelona man will now enjoy some well deserved time off, having missed out on the playoffs with his new side Inter Miami. With the next international break not until March and the MLS not set to return until February, Messi has several months of recovery time before he is tasked with playing again.