Lionel Messi (right) will continue representing the Argentina national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Lionel Messi is widely expected to make his final World Cup appearance in the 2026 edition, reigniting speculation over when La Pulga will retire from international football.

Messi is preparing to lead Argentina once again on football’s grandest stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The tournament will mark his sixth World Cup appearance, equalling the record held by his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo and Mexico’s goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

Beyond breaking records, Messi is also determined to help Argentina defend their world champion title.

The Albiceleste previously clinched the trophy in the 2022 edition after defeating France in a dramatic final.

The tournament in North America is expected to be Messi’s last major international outing with Argentina.

At 38 years old, it is widely believed that Messi will soon hang up his boots for the national team.

Speculation over his retirement timeline has resurfaced once again.

No one truly knows when that moment will arrive — except the Inter Miami captain himself.

Even Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni admitted he cannot predict exactly when Messi will call it a day.

Scaloni responded wisely to questions surrounding Messi’s potential retirement.

“He will keep playing as long as he wants to, because we already know who he is, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him at his sixth World Cup,” Scaloni told Diario Ole.

“He remains the best because he always wants more and constantly shows that hunger for improvement,” he added.

As for how many matches Messi will play at the 2026 World Cup, Scaloni said he will discuss it directly with the player.

This upcoming World Cup will feature a new format, different from previous editions.

The global football competition will now include 48 teams, extending the duration of the tournament with the addition of a Round of 32 stage.

This expanded structure could impact player fitness levels, particularly for Messi, who is now in the twilight of his career, making it unlikely that he will play every match.

“Every decision we make is discussed with him,” Scaloni explained.

“It would be pointless for me to sit here and say I make all the decisions. In his case, and I think it’s only right, I will always talk to him, ask how he feels, and then we’ll decide together.”

“I think that’s how it should be because, even when he’s struggling physically, he still gives us so much on the pitch,” Scaloni concluded.

Messi will lead Argentina as they defend their crown in Group J, alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.

Given the relatively manageable group, Argentina’s path to the knockout stage appears promising.