What did Messi stipulate to lead the Argentina national team in the 2026 World Cup?

Argentine star Lionel Messi said that it is still a long time until the date of the 2026 World Cup, to determine his future with his country, but he ruled out his participation in the international tournament because he will be 39 years old, which will be an obstacle for him to participate.

Argentine star Lionel Messi said that it is not likely that he will continue to play internationally until the next edition of the World Cup, which will be held in 2026 in America, Canada and Mexico.

The Argentine captain, who won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, said, in an interview with the Argentine sports newspaper "Ole" on Friday, that he will be 39 years old, and this may be an obstacle for him to participate in the tournament that will be held after 3 years.

Messi added: "I don't know, I've always said that because of my age, I think it's very difficult for me to be there."

The Paris Saint-Germain striker stipulated that he would continue to lead the national team until the 2026 World Cup, saying: “I love playing football, I love what I do, as long as I am fine and feel physically ready and enjoying myself, I will continue to play. I think it is still a long time until the next World Cup.”

He continued, "I will see where my career goes and what I will do, and that depends on many things."

Messi crowned his impressive career last year when he led the Argentine national team to win the World Cup in Qatar.

"For me, this is precisely the end of my career, and I don't think there is a better ending," he said.

The Argentine captain expressed his hopes that Lionel Scaloni, who is currently negotiating with the Argentine Football Association, will remain coach of the country's national team.