Sergio Aguero believes Lionel Messi could join the 2026 World Cup at 39 "if he wants to." Despite hinting Qatar 2022 would be his last, Messi hasn’t retired from international play, and Argentina’s coach, Scaloni, is keeping the door open. Aguero says Messi’s dedication and skill could lead him to compete once more.

Sergio Aguero recently hinted that his former teammate Lionel Messi might aim for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. Following his triumphant 2022 World Cup win in Qatar, where he had initially suggested it could be his last, Messi's continued brilliance leaves the possibility open. Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has refrained from excluding Messi from future plans, recognizing his value and unmatched experience.

Now playing with Inter Miami in the MLS, Messi’s future with Argentina remains a tantalizing prospect, especially as he could play a role in defending the World Cup title on North American soil. Fans worldwide are eager to see if the Argentine icon will step onto the global stage once more. Moreover, Aguero said that:

“I think Messi will make it to 2026, he will take care of himself. Obviously he won’t be the Leo he always was, but give him a few free-kicks or a few assists and he will make them. He can get there physically. If he wants to, he will, because he takes good care of himself.”

With 189 appearances for Argentina, Lionel Messi has achieved an impressive 112 goals and 57 assists. Should he continue playing, he will aim to elevate these numbers even further, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest contributors to Argentine football.