Messi refuses to rule out 2026, but he's definitely up for the 2024 Copa America in the United States

February 3 - World Cup winner Lionel Messi hasn't shut the door on his return to the biggest stage of them all, but says he isn't sure he can yet bring what needed for the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine will be 39 at the start of the next World Cup.

He expects to be in the United States for the 2024 Copa America, however.

Last year, Messi led Argentina to a third world title, the crowning achievement of his illustrious career, firmly cementing his name in the gallery of the greats, but he said in an interview with the newspaper Argentinian Ole, the 2026 tournament, hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, seems to be going too far.

“I love playing football, I love what I do and while I feel good and feel fit and continue to enjoy it, I will. 'at the next World Cup," Messi said. "I have to see where my career goes, what I'm going to do. It depends on a lot of things."

But he has hinted that he will still take part in next year's Copa America in the United States. Argentina are defending champions. He also wants current coach Lionel Scaloni to stay. The manager negotiates a contract extension,

"I'm going to stay a bit longer, I have to enjoy it," Messi said.

"He (Scaloni) is very important for the national team. To continue this process would be spectacular.”

Scaloni had arrived as caretaker manager but was so successful in integrating talented individuals into a team around Messi that he got the role on a permanent basis. It turned out to be a shrewd move as Scaloni used his staff wisely, showing flexibility in his tactics as Argentina overcame a first game defeat to win the World Cup title in Qatar. /p>

Argentina and Messi are set to feature celebratory friendlies in March.

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