Lionel Messi Hints at Argentina Return to Chase Another World Cup Title!

The football world was set abuzz when the king of the game, Lionel Messi, admitted that he is open to returning to help Argentina compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament will be held in North America from 11 June to 19 July 2026, with three host nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States. However, the big question remains — by then, Messi will be 39 years old. Will he still have enough quality to carry his nation once more? In this article, V9Bet explores the possibilities, the likelihood of his return, and the potential impact on the “Albiceleste”.

Lionel Messi and the Signs of Another Argentina Comeback

In truth, Messi could have ended his international career in 2022, the year he finally led Argentina to his first World Cup triumph. Yet calls for his return never truly stopped. Even after Argentina’s home victory over Venezuela last September, Messi hinted that it might be his final international appearance. However, in the October demolition of Puerto Rico, he once again wore the captain’s armband. This has convinced many international football bettors that his ultimate goal remains the 2026 World Cup.

Why Lionel Messi Has Not Yet Closed the Door on the World Cup

After more than 20 years of international service — scoring 115 goals, providing 64 assists in 196 appearances, and winning one World Cup and two Copa América titles — Messi has nothing left to prove. Yet with the 2026 World Cup fast approaching and his mindset clearly shifting, there are strong reasons to believe fans will once again witness Lionel Messi working his magic on North American soil, the ultimate stage every footballer dreams of.

Motivation from Messi’s Current Form and Physical Condition

Many who watch live football once claimed Messi was past his best after leaving Europe for Major League Soccer in the United States. That narrative has since been silenced. The lower intensity has helped him avoid serious injuries over the past three years, while consistent playing time has kept his confidence high. Since joining Inter Miami CF, Messi has made 88 appearances, scoring 77 goals and providing 44 assists. Celebrating his 39th birthday at the 2026 World Cup now feels entirely realistic.

Projected Argentina Squad if Messi Leads the Team Again

Four years separate the 2022 and 2026 World Cups, yet remarkably, several players from the title-winning squad could still line up alongside Lionel Messi at age 39. According to the analysis team at Inplay Matrix, these are the players coach Lionel Scaloni is most likely to take to North America.

Expected Starting XI Alongside Lionel Messi

Under Scaloni’s preferred 4-4-1-1 system, Emiliano Martínez of Aston Villa remains the first-choice goalkeeper, supported by Gerónimo Rulli of Villarreal. The back four is expected to feature Nahuel Molina (Atlético Madrid), Nicolás Otamendi (Benfica), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur), and Nicolás Tagliafico (Olympique Lyon).

In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul of Inter Miami is set to partner either Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool or Enzo Fernández of Chelsea. This setup allows Messi full creative freedom behind striker Lautaro Martínez of Inter Milan. According to V9Bet analysts, the wide positions remain the most uncertain, with Julián Álvarez currently the only guaranteed starter.

Young Talents and Key Players Enhancing Argentina’s Attack

While several experienced stars remain central figures, the four-year gap has also allowed new talents to emerge. One standout is left winger Thiago Almada, the 24-year-old Atlético Madrid player who has earned 12 caps, scoring 4 goals and providing 2 assists.

On the right flank, 18-year-old Franco Mastantuono is another exciting prospect. After moving to Real Madrid last summer and quickly earning minutes under coach Xabi Alonso, he was immediately called up by Scaloni. Although he has yet to register a goal or assist, he could become a powerful wildcard for online bettors.

Tactical Impact and Title Chances with Lionel Messi in the Squad

Argentina’s recent results without Lionel Messi — a 0–1 loss to Ecuador and a narrow 1–0 win over Venezuela — clearly highlighted the drop in attacking efficiency. This decline explains why Scaloni is eager to persuade his captain to return. Upon Messi’s comeback, Argentina went on to thrash Puerto Rico 6–0 and defeat Angola comfortably 2–0.

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Conclusion

While Lionel Messi has not officially confirmed his participation in the 2026 World Cup, his physical condition, form, and continued influence suggest fans are highly likely to see him grace the North American stage. Whether Argentina exit early or lift the trophy once more, this tournament promises to be a fitting and unforgettable chapter in the legacy of football’s greatest icon.