Messi Opens Up: The 2026 World Cup Question, Life in Miami, and the Inevitable "End"

In a candid new sit-down, the Inter Miami star reflects on his American journey so far and gives fans the nuanced update they’ve been waiting for regarding his future with Argentina.

When Lionel Messi speaks, the footballing world stops to listen. The 8-time Ballon d'Or winner is notoriously private, preferring to let his football do the talking. But in a wide-ranging new interview released this week, the Argentine legend offered a rare, introspective look into his current mindset as he approaches the twilight of his unparalleled career.

Settled in South Florida and preparing for another season with Inter Miami, Messi touched on everything from the reunion with old friends to the looming question of retirement.

Here are the key takeaways from Messi’s latest comments.

The 2026 World Cup: A Definite "Maybe"

With the 2026 World Cup in North America fast approaching, the biggest question on everyone’s mind is whether the reigning champion will be there to defend his crown.

Messi, who will turn 39 during the tournament, remains cautious about committing fully. True to his recent form, he emphasized that his participation isn't about desire it's about his body.

"I’ve said it many times, it depends on how I feel," Messi shared. He stressed that while the hunger to compete for Argentina never fades, he needs to be realistic about the physical demands. He is intensely focused on his day-to-day fitness with Inter Miami, noting that if he feels he can contribute at the highest level when the time comes, he will be there. But he will not go just to be a figurehead; he wants to be decisive.

The "Miami State of Mind"

Moving from the intense pressure cooker of Paris Saint-Germain to Major League Soccer was a massive cultural shift. Messi reflected positively on his time in the US so far, describing it as the right move for this stage of his life.

While the competitive fire still burns as evidenced by the Leagues Cup trophy in his cabinet he admitted that life in Miami offers a different balance. He spoke about the joy of being able to do "normal things" with his wife Antonela and their three children with slightly less chaotic scrutiny than in Europe.

He also highlighted the growth of MLS, noting the increasing quality of the stadiums and the passion of the fans, suggesting the league is on an upward trajectory that he is proud to be part of.

The Suarez Reunion and the "Old Guard"

A significant part of Messi's joy in Miami has been the recreation of the Barcelona glory days, reuniting with Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez.

Messi spoke warmly about sharing the pitch and the locker room with Suárez again. He described their connection as intuitive, something that never faded despite their time apart. Having his close friends around him in Miami has clearly provided a comfort zone that allows him to enjoy his football during these final chapters.

Confronting Retirement

It’s the topic no football fan wants to think about, but Messi knows the clock is ticking. When asked about retirement, he offered a calm, mature perspective.

He reiterated that he does not have a set date marked on the calendar. Instead, his retirement will be based on feeling. "I know that the moment I feel that I am no longer performing, that I am not enjoying it, that I am not helping my teammates," that will be the time, he explained.

He emphasized that right now, he is still enjoying the training, the camaraderie, and the matches. His goal is to "stretch it out" as long as the enjoyment and the physical capability are present.

The Takeaway

The overriding theme of Messi's latest comments is a sense of peace. He has achieved everything there is to achieve in the sport. He has completed football.

What we are witnessing now is a victory lap by the greatest to ever play the game. Whether that lap extends to the 2026 World Cup Final remains to be seen, but Messi's message to fans is clear: stop worrying about when it ends, and just enjoy watching him while we still can.