Lionel Messi is preparing for an absolutely epic farewell to international stages, potentially crowning a legendary career with a historic achievement: guiding Argentina to consecutive World Cup victories, something only within reach of the greatest. The 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be the final stage of one of the most fascinating stories in world football, with the Argentine captain celebrating his 39th birthday during the tournament and drawing crowds and heightened attention regarding his physical condition and influence within the squad.
The Argentine national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, will begin its title defense against Algeria on June 17 in Kansas, in a group that also includes Austria and debutants Jordan. Messi, the all-time record holder for appearances and goals for the “Albiceleste,” remains the guiding light of the team and is supported by an almost unchanged core of the squad that became world champions in 2022. The question of whether the star will be at 100% looms large, especially after he suffered a muscle injury in Inter Miami’s last match before the World Cup – a detail that has left all of Argentina on edge.
The importance of this World Cup for Messi and Argentine football is undeniable. In addition to the possibility of becoming a two-time world champion, Messi has the opportunity to solidify his status as a living legend and to deliver a dream ending to his international career for Argentina. The national coach, Scaloni, acknowledged the global impact of Messi on the eve of the campaign’s start: “We believe that everyone—not just Argentines—wants to see him on the field,” Scaloni stated. “I want to see him play because that’s what he generates in everyone. For me, it will always be like that. I honestly don’t see anything negative [in training]. He has been in different conditions, but he has always been there and has always been fundamental for us, so now it will be even more so.”
The path for Argentina in the tournament could be filled with significant obstacles. If they confirm their favoritism and win the group, Messi and company will face the second-placed team from Group H in the Round of 16, a scenario that could see them up against opponents like Cabo Verde – who have already held Spain to a draw – a Saudi Arabia that surprised Argentina in the last World Cup, or even the powerful Spain, the reigning European champions. If Argentina finishes in second place, their opponent will be the winner of that group, and if they qualify as one of the best third-placed teams, they will meet one of the group winners – each possibility carries potential pitfalls and unpredictable matchups.
The Argentine squad features an experienced and victorious backbone, complemented by names that shine in the major European leagues. The attacking front includes Julián Álvarez, the hero of 2022, and Lautaro Martínez, the second top scorer of the Scaloni era. The midfield combines creativity and strength with Enzo Fernández (Chelsea), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), and Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s teammate at Inter Miami. In goal, Emiliano Martínez – the protagonist of the penalty shootout against France – remains a guarantee of security.
Scaloni may choose to manage Messi’s playing time throughout the group stage, especially if qualification is secured before the final match against Jordan. The coach made it clear that the captain’s value is irreplaceable: “He has always been fundamental for us, and now he will be even more so,” he emphasized. Messi, for his part, remains focused and highly motivated, determined to end an unparalleled international career on a high note.
Messi’s next challenge will be against Algeria, in an atmosphere of immense expectation, both in Argentina and globally. The football world will be glued to their screens to see if the magic of the number 10 remains intact and whether he can inspire Argentina to achieve something historic. If he manages to lift the trophy once again, Messi will not only reinforce his status as the greatest of all time but will also leave an eternal legacy for future generations.
With Spain, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, and Germany lurking, the path to the title will be anything but easy. However, with Messi at the helm, Argentina believes that anything is possible. The outcome of this World Cup could forever redefine the narrative of international football and, above all, Messi’s aura as an untouchable icon of the sport.
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