Lionel Messi is eagerly looking forward to participating in the Copa América in the USA next June, as stated in an ESPN/Star+ documentary called "Champions, A Year Later." The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, although uncertain about his involvement in the 2026 World Cup, hasn't completely ruled out representing Argentina. Messi expressed, "As long as I feel good and I can continue to deliver, I'm going to continue playing with Argentina. All I'm thinking about today is getting to the Copa América and being able to play in it."
Approaching the age of 39 by 2026, Messi acknowledges that his eligibility to play in the World Cup might be unlikely. However, he stated, "I will always try to compete to the maximum and I am the first to know when I can be at that level and when I can't." After experiencing the heartbreak of losing three major finals consecutively—the 2014 World Cup, 2015 Copa América, and 2016 Copa América—Messi finally led Argentina to glory in the 2022 World Cup, securing the Golden Ball for the tournament's best player and scoring twice in the final against France.
Having waited for years to achieve international success, Messi now wishes to savor the present moment. He stated, "After suffering for so many years, now that we are experiencing a special moment that I have never experienced before, I want to enjoy it to the fullest." The unity and strength of the Argentine team have greatly contributed to Messi's sense of well-being within the group. He expressed his desire to make the most of this current phase without overthinking the future, stating, "I want to take advantage of all that, without thinking two or three years ahead, which in football is a lot."
Following his World Cup victory in Qatar, Messi made a significant move across the Atlantic, joining Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami. His arrival has sparked a renewed interest in soccer from American fans. While Messi acknowledges that he has transitioned to a smaller league, he sees it as a personal decision and a unique challenge to be embraced.
Since his arrival at Inter Miami in July, the club embarked on an impressive 12-game unbeaten run and secured their first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup. However, they concluded the season without a win in seven games, partially due to Messi's absence through injury.
Messi remains uncertain about his future beyond the upcoming Copa América, acknowledging that circumstances may determine whether he continues playing or not. He said, "Maybe we'll do well in the Copa América and everything will work out for me to continue. Maybe not. It's hard." Nevertheless, being a world champion has brought Messi a newfound sense of tranquility, knowing that he has achieved the highest honor in his profession.