Summary – Lionel Messi, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, reveals he will assess his physical condition next year before deciding on participating in the upcoming World Cup.,
Article –
Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and one of football’s most celebrated athletes, has announced that he will wait until next year to evaluate his physical condition before deciding whether he will participate in the upcoming World Cup. This statement was made during a press conference on October 28, 2025, drawing significant attention from the global football community.
What Happened?
During a media briefing, Messi addressed questions regarding his potential involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He emphasized the importance of assessing his body’s condition before making such a critical decision, stating, “I will see next year how my body feels before making the decision on whether I can play in the World Cup.”
This highlights Messi’s commitment to professionalism and longevity in the sport despite his extensive career and current elite-level performance.
Key Numbers
- Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, an unprecedented achievement.
- Over 700 club goals and numerous assists in his career.
- At 38 years old, he is one of the oldest active players at the highest level.
The 2026 World Cup could be an opportunity for Messi to further solidify his legacy or possibly conclude his World Cup journey.
Locker-Room Reactions
Comments from teammates and coaches show immense respect for Messi’s abilities and his thoughtful approach to ongoing participation:
- Argentina’s national team coach praised Messi’s transparency and dedication, saying, “Leo is a professional who always puts the team first.”
- Several players expressed admiration for the inspiration Messi continues to provide on and off the pitch.
Immediate Consequences
Although Messi has not committed definitively to the 2026 World Cup, his statement has intensified focus on Argentina’s preparations. The team must strategize with or without their star player as they advance through qualifiers and into the tournament.
FIFA officials are closely monitoring the situation due to the commercial and sporting impact Messi’s participation entails.
What Comes Next?
Fans and analysts worldwide await further updates as Messi undergoes fitness evaluations while continuing to play competitively for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the Argentina national team.
More detailed information regarding Messi’s World Cup plans is expected early next year, before national squad selections and tournament preparations begin.
The football world eagerly watches to see if Messi can add another chapter to his extraordinary career, potentially influencing team dynamics and the tournament’s outcomes.
Stay tuned to SPACE SPORTS for more worldwide sports insights.
About The Author
More Stories
LSU Manship School Hosts Annual Sports Summit with Industry Leaders
Inside LSU Manship School’s Annual Sports Summit: Industry Leaders Share Insights
Global Sporting Event Report Template