I don't agree — Javier Zanetti discusses Messi's participation at 2026 World Cup

Former Argentina national team defender Javier Zanetti has expressed confidence in Lionel Messi’s ability to lead the Albiceleste into the 2026 World Cup. 

Messi is still the Argentine national captain at 38. However, there are doubts whether he will be part of the squad for the next World Cup, as he has cast doubt over his participation at every turn. 

Messi's age and competitive level, given that he plays in the MLS, are some of the concerns regarding his ability to play at the level required for the World Cup. However, Zanetti, who enjoyed a whopping 145 caps for the national team, believes Messi still has enough in the tank to lead the team. 

Asked if he thinks Messi will decide to play, he said, “That has to be his decision, but I think yes. There are only a few months to go, and I believe he also wants to represent his country again. I have no doubt it will happen.”

Speaking to the worries about Messi’s advance age, he said, “I don’t agree with that. Messi is fully capable of continuing as a leader. 

“He’s intelligent, knows better than anyone how to interpret what the team needs, and is surrounded by great players in the national team. I’m convinced that with him, Argentina will be a major contender again at the next World Cup.”

 “I don’t know if that can be seen in the short term, but I think the time has come for Messi to enjoy football. The most important thing now is that he enjoys what he does. The World Cup will surely be an important testing ground to see how he feels, and then he’ll decide, calmly, whether to continue.”