Lionel Messi’s name continues to echo across continents, from the sun-drenched pitches of Miami to the hallowed halls of Barcelona and the fevered anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As of August 31, 2025, the legendary Argentine’s international future remains a tantalizing question mark, sparking speculation among fans, pundits, and former teammates alike. While Messi dazzles in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, the world waits with bated breath to see if he’ll don the iconic Albiceleste jersey for one last World Cup adventure.
Messi’s current focus is firmly planted in Miami, where he’s rewriting the record books and bringing unprecedented attention to American soccer. At 38, the former Barcelona maestro shows no signs of slowing down. In the 2025 MLS season, Messi has netted 19 goals and provided 8 assists in just 19 appearances—a staggering output by any measure. His impact isn’t limited to domestic competition; he’s also found the net five times in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and added another goal during the FIFA Club World Cup in June, even as Inter Miami fell short in both finals.
Tonight, Messi is set to take center stage once more as Inter Miami faces the Seattle Sounders in the Leagues Cup final. The Herons, energized by Messi’s leadership and skill, are eyeing their first trophy of the season. For Miami fans, every touch of the ball by Messi is a moment to savor, a reminder that greatness can thrive in new surroundings.
Yet, as Messi continues to shine in the United States, the question of his international future looms ever larger. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to unfold across the United States, Mexico, and Canada in an expanded 48-team format, is fast approaching. Argentina’s upcoming qualifiers against Ecuador and Venezuela will be crucial, but Messi’s camp has made it clear that no decision about his World Cup participation has been made. According to statements relayed to Diario Ole’s editor Hernán Claus, Messi has not set a timeline for his international retirement. Instead, he’s taking a measured approach, focusing on both his physical and emotional well-being as the tournament draws near.
“Decisions regarding the national team and the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be made calmly and without haste,” Messi’s entourage emphasized, as quoted by All Around Argentina. The message is unmistakable: Messi’s future with Argentina hinges on how he feels as the event approaches, both in body and spirit. His passion for representing his country remains undiminished, but the demands of international football—especially at nearly 39—are not taken lightly.
Meanwhile, Messi’s leadership continues to shape the next generation of Argentine talent. Young stars like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández are blossoming under his guidance, benefiting from his wealth of experience and his relentless drive for excellence. For Argentina, having Messi available for the 2026 World Cup would not only provide invaluable leadership but also a psychological boost—a talismanic presence that inspires teammates and intimidates opponents.
The debate over Messi’s future has drawn voices from across the footballing world, none more passionate than his longtime friend and teammate Ángel Di María. Speaking to La Nacional, Di María expressed his fervent hope that Messi would remain with the national team through the next World Cup. “Messi’s presence is not just about results but about inspiring generations of fans who idolize his unique brilliance,” Di María declared. Drawing parallels with Diego Maradona, he argued that Messi belongs in the pantheon of football’s greatest and that Argentina—and the world—cannot afford to miss the chance to see him grace the World Cup stage once more.
Di María’s admiration even extends to Messi’s club career in MLS. “I watch Inter Miami matches just to keep enjoying my friend’s brilliance,” he confessed, underscoring the global reach of Messi’s enduring magic. The bond between Messi and the Argentina national team has only deepened since the historic 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, a victory that cemented Messi’s legacy alongside Maradona and fulfilled his lifelong quest for international glory.
While Messi’s international destiny remains unresolved, his influence continues to ripple through the footballing landscape in other ways. Just days ago, Messi liked an Instagram post from the FC Barcelona fan blog DPG Producciones, which paid tribute to 18-year-old Lamine Yamal—the young star who inherited Messi’s iconic No.10 jersey after signing a contract extension until 2031. The post featured a heartfelt video montage celebrating Messi’s unforgettable moments at Barcelona and heralding Yamal as the club’s future. In just two years as a senior professional, Yamal has made 108 appearances, scored 26 goals, and provided 37 assists for Barcelona. His star rose even higher during Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, where he assisted the opening goal in the final against England.
Messi’s subtle social media endorsement of Yamal’s rise sent fans into a frenzy, bridging the past and future of Barcelona’s storied No.10 shirt. As supporters reminisce about Messi’s golden days at Camp Nou, they also look ahead with hope, trusting that the legacy he built will inspire the next generation of footballing greatness.
Back in Miami, Messi’s commitment to his club remains unwavering. He’s reportedly in discussions about a possible contract extension with Inter Miami, a move that would further entrench his influence in Major League Soccer and help solidify the league’s growing reputation on the global stage. Despite battling injuries this season, Messi’s performances have been nothing short of world-class, drawing legions of new fans to MLS and keeping Miami in the hunt for silverware.
With the 2026 World Cup set to be the largest in history—featuring 48 teams and matches spread across 16 host cities including MetLife Stadium and Azteca Stadium—the stage is set for an unforgettable tournament. For Argentina, the prospect of Messi leading a new generation into battle is as tantalizing as ever. Yet, the ultimate decision rests with the man himself, who has earned the right to choose his path without pressure or haste.
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, football fans everywhere remain on the edge of their seats. Will Messi grace the world’s biggest stage one final time? Only time will tell. For now, supporters can only cherish every moment he remains on the pitch, whether in Miami’s pink or Argentina’s blue and white, knowing that his legacy is already etched in the annals of sporting history.
