Argentina superstar Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Venezuela. Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images

Argentina soccer superstar Lionel Messi has said he hopes to play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup , though acknowledges that his health will dictate his role in the competition.

In an interview with NBC News , the 38-year-old hinted at playing in soccer’s biggest competition next year, which will take place next summer across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

“I am going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start the preseason next year with Inter (Miami) and see if I can really be 100%, if I can be useful to the group, to the national team, and then make a decision,” said the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

“I’m really eager

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