Messi Says Goodbye in Argentina – Doubt Over 2026 World Cup?

Lionel Messi delivered a night to remember in Buenos Aires as he played what he described as his final competitive match in Argentina, leading his country to a 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental. Messi scored twice, Lautaro Martínez added another, and the legendary forward waved goodbye to his home fans in emotional scenes. But amid the celebrations, Messi left the football world with uncertainty, admitting his participation in the 2026 World Cup remains doubtful.

An Emotional Farewell in Buenos Aires

Messi, Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, reflected on the emotions of playing in front of his home crowd one last time in an official match.

“It’s always a joy to play in Argentina with our people. We’ve been enjoying match after match for many years. I’m very happy; being able to finish in this way here is what I always dreamed of,” Messi said post-match.

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He acknowledged the journey of his international career, from the early struggles to finally lifting the 2022 World Cup trophy in Qatar. The farewell moment was the culmination of decades of love between Messi and Argentina’s fans, something he admitted he had always craved.

Doubt Over 2026 World Cup Participation

When asked about playing in the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Messi’s answer was cautious.

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“Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it,” he admitted. At 38 years old by the time of the tournament, the Inter Miami star knows the physical challenge will be enormous.

Still, Messi left the door open: “We’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, going by how I feel. Hopefully, I’ll have a good preseason in 2026 and finish this MLS season well, and then I’ll decide.”

Messi stressed honesty with himself would be key—if his body cannot handle it, he would prefer to step aside rather than play below his best.

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Injury Concerns and Scaloni’s Decision

Messi confirmed that he will not feature in Argentina’s next qualifier against Ecuador.

“I spoke with [head coach Lionel] Scaloni, and he decided that I should rest, not travel to Ecuador because I’m recovering from a hamstring injury,” Messi revealed. The decision allows him to avoid further strain and focus on both his MLS campaign with Inter Miami and Argentina’s preparations for upcoming friendlies.

Messi’s World Cup Journey

Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006 at just 18 years old. He has since played in five editions, leading Argentina to the 2014 final, and most memorably, winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar—a crowning moment in his career.

Across his international career, Messi has amassed countless records, including being Argentina’s all-time top scorer and their most influential figure of the modern era. His legacy with La Albiceleste is already secured, regardless of whether he takes part in 2026.

What’s Next for Argentina and Messi

Argentina currently sits atop the CONMEBOL standings with 35 points from 16 games, already securing qualification for the 2026 tournament. Scaloni’s side now prepares for their October friendlies while managing Messi’s minutes carefully.

For Messi, the focus shifts back to Inter Miami, where he aims to finish the MLS season strong before reevaluating his World Cup decision in 2026.

Final Thoughts

Lionel Messi’s farewell match in Argentina was both celebratory and bittersweet. The goals, the ovation, and the emotions reflected a career of extraordinary highs. But the uncertainty over his World Cup future leaves fans worldwide in suspense.

Whether he plays in 2026 or not, Messi has already etched himself into football history—his farewell in Buenos Aires only added another unforgettable chapter.