LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) Major League Soccer is actively strategizing to facilitate Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is set to turn 39 when the global football extravaganza unfolds.
While Messi hinted that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar might be his last international tournament, speculations suggest otherwise.
Renowned football agent Bruno Satin has disclosed insider information indicating MLS’s commitment to ensuring Messi’s presence at the 2026 World Cup.
According to Satin, MLS recognizes that Messi’s prominence extends beyond the realm of football, attracting attention and generating interest across various domains.
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As such, MLS intends to take comprehensive measures to safeguard Messi and enable his participation in the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
Lionel Messi is currently under contract with Inter Miami, a Florida-based MLS team, until 2025, with a potential extension for an additional 12 months.
Despite ongoing speculations and hopes for a sixth World Cup appearance on U.S. soil, Messi has maintained a cautious approach.
He emphasized that the goal is to prepare for the upcoming Copa America in the United States, suggesting that World Cup participation will depend on his physical condition and feelings at the time.
Following the conclusion of the 2023 MLS season, Inter Miami made an official announcement to cancel their postseason China Tour, indicating Messi’s extended stay in the United States.
