LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-Argentina captain, Lionel Messi made the decision on Tuesday to skip the future World Cup, which will take place in Mexico, the United States, and Canada in 2026.
Messi’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain will expire at the end of the month, and he will then sign with Inter Miami.
“I don’t think so. This was my last World Cup,” Messi told Chinese sports media Titan Sports when asked if he will take part in the 2026 edition.
“I will see how things turn out, but as of now, I don’t intend to go to the next World Cup.”
Messi just competed in his sixth World Cup in Qatar, where he helped Argentina win the championship.
He had previously competed in the tournaments held in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018, however he had not been successful in reaching the finals.
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The closest he came was in 2014, when Germany defeated Argentina in the championship game.
He expressed gratitude to Chinese fans, saying they’ve always been kind to him and his squad.
DMessi,espite the time difference between China and Europe, Messi mentioned watching the Champions League final, which Manchester City ultimately won.
Also, he lauded Pep Guardiola, his former coach, who he still communicates with frequently, saying that Guardiola has proven to be the “best coach in the world.“
While Messi claimed that he has no plans to become a coach in the future, he did leave the door open by stating that he is not certain.