How long will Lionel Messi play for Argentina? Advice offered by fellow World Cup winner Cesar Luis Menotti amid 2026 finals confusion

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, who is expected to land an eighth Golden Ball in 2023, has previously stated that he has no plans to represent his country at the 2026 World Cup. If he were to miss that event in the United States, Canada and Mexico, then he would not form part of Argentina’s global title defence.

Others have suggested that Messi will be talked into prolonging his career for at least another three years, with Albiceleste boss Lionel Scaloni leaving the door open for the all-time great to make himself available for selection.

Another World Cup winner – 1978 coach Cesar Luis Menotti – has now offered his advice to Messi, with the legendary Argentine tactician telling DSports Radio when asked how much longer his illustrious countryman can play on for: “Messi knows how far he can go and what he feels about playing. He is at a beautiful age to decide what to do and what not to do. He has been accompanied by success and by great team-mates on great teams.”

Messi has taken in 178 appearances for Argentina, scoring 106 goals, and is expected to form part of their squad at the 2024 Copa America – another tournament that they will enter as defending champions. He has an option in his contract at MLS side Inter Miami for 2026 should he wish to remain in the United States for a World Cup that will be co-hosted by America.