Lionel Messi has ruled out any possibility of playing for Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while noting that he would still like to be there.
The Paris Saint-German star said he wishes to be at the venue as a spectator but not to participate as a football player.
The 35-year-old made this known while speaking to Chinese media when asked if he would play for his country at the 2026 World Cup.
Messi, who led Argentina to win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar last December, said; “I don’t think I will participate in the next edition of the World Cup.
“I have not changed my mind about that. I’d like to be there to watch it, but I’m not going to participate”.
He will be 38 years old in 2026.
The next World Cup will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
In other news, Al-Nassr forward, Cristiano Ronaldo has opened up on his plans after he retires from professional football.
Ronaldo also revealed how many years are remaining for him to hang the boot and where he wants to live after retirement.
The 38-year-old was quoted by Madrid Xtra as saying that he wants to continue playing for two or three more years.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also said that he would return to Madrid and live in the Spanish capital after his retirement.
The ex-Man United star said; “My future? I would like to play for 2/3 years more.”
He added; “When I retire, I will return to live in Madrid.”
