Messi Aims for 2026 World Cup, Di Maria Retires from International Football
Argentina’s legendary footballer, Lionel Messi, has expressed his desire to play in the 2026 World Cup, according to his national team coach, Lionel Scaloni. Scaloni, who led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, provided insights into Messi’s plans and the recent retirement of another Argentina great, Angel Di Maria.
Scaloni revealed that Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is keen to continue representing his national team and participate in the 2026 World Cup. “The first thing to say is that both he and his teammates are aware that there is a reasonable amount of time left and that he and everyone else are keen to play in the World Cup,” Scaloni told DSPORTS.
However, Scaloni cautioned that it is too early to make any official announcements about Messi’s future plans. “We will have to wait and see how things develop. He (Messi) knows what we are thinking and he is the most intelligent of us all,” the coach added.
Messi’s desire to play in the 2026 World Cup comes as no surprise, as the legendary forward continues to defy age and cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. The 37-year-old’s performances in the 2022 World Cup, where he finally lifted the trophy with Argentina, have only fueled his ambition to extend his international career.
Di Maria’s Retirement and Legacy
Scaloni also addressed the recent retirement of former Argentina forward Angel Di Maria, who decided to hang up his international boots after winning his second Copa America trophy last year.
“From what he said, it is over. And in the best possible way. If he had written his film, his book, his football story, I don’t think he would have written it as well as he ended it,” Scaloni said, paying tribute to Di Maria’s illustrious international career.
Di Maria’s decision to retire from the national team comes after a successful stint, which included winning the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup with Argentina. The winger, who played a crucial role in Argentina’s triumph in Qatar, has left an indelible mark on the national team’s history.</
Scaloni’s comments on Messi’s and Di Maria’s futures highlight the continued evolution of Argentina’s national team, as they look to build on their recent success and maintain their position as one of the powerhouses of international football.
Key Takeaways:
- Lionel Messi wants to play in the 2026 World Cup, according to his national team coach Lionel Scaloni.
- Scaloni cautioned that it is too early to make any official announcements about Messi’s future plans.
- Angel Di Maria has retired from international football after winning the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup with Argentina.
- Scaloni praised Di Maria’s decision to retire in the “best possible way” and said he couldn’t have written his “football story” any better.
Call to Action:
Stay tuned for updates on Lionel Messi’s future with the Argentine national team as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. Follow the latest news and analysis on the team’s journey and the legendary players who have shaped their success.
