Lionel Messi is intensifying preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with teammate Rodrigo de Paul revealing his rigorous double training sessions beyond club duties at Inter Miami. Despite being 38, Messi continues elite MLS form with 12 goals and 6 assists in 12 games, helping Inter Miami remain near top of the table as he targets another World Cup triumph.

Buenos Aires: Lionel Messi's Inter Miami and Argentina teammate Rodrigo de Paul has revealed the legendary footballer's training regime leading up to the FIFA World Cup 2026, where the maestro would be aiming to defend the most prestigious title in football.

Despite having achieved it all at club and international level in terms of individual and team honours', Messi's work behind the scenes has increased more than ever, with the 38-year-old eyeing his second FIFA World Cup.

As per De Paul, Messi, who also captains Inter Miami, has a double training session as a part of his daily routine, which is beyond his standard commitments with the club.

Speaking to Lo del Pollo as quoted by Goal.com, De Paul revealed that this training plan has been in place since a long while, saying, "Between two and three months ago, we had a training plan beyond what we do at the club and the two of us kill ourselves to reach the best physical shape. We proposed a double shift for ourselves and we have our trainer there and we give it our all."