Will Messi and Ronaldo Play In FIFA World Cup 2026? These players have had impressive careers, breaking records and receiving numerous accolades. But as they approach the end of their careers, fans, and experts speculate about their involvement in the next World Cup.
Will Messi & Ronaldo Play In FIFA World Cup 2026?
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will be 39 and 41 years old when the FIFA World Cup 2026 takes place. Although age is important in professional sports, it’s not the only factor that determines a player’s longevity. Fitness, form, and desire to continue playing at the highest level also play significant roles.
Lionel Messi
Now, let’s talk about Argentina’s captain. Last December Messi led Argentina to the World Cup glory, making it his fifth appearance in the tournament. This victory was Argentina’s third World Cup title and their first since 1986 when Diego Maradona lifted the trophy. Their first win came in 1978.
Messi previously hinted that the Qatar World Cup would be his last tournament. Despite fans, teammates, and coach Lionel Scaloni hoping for a change of heart, Messi confirmed his decision in a report by Efe News Agency. When asked about the 2026 edition which is jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Messi told the Chinese sports magazine Titan Sports that he did not plan to participate. He stated that Qatar was his final World Cup and he had no intention of attending the next one.
Messi has 103 international goals in 175 matches.
Also Read: Can India Qualify For FIFA World Cup 2026? – Explained
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr and the Portuguese national team, was recently asked about participating in the 2026 World Cup during a Q&A session with young fans in Singapore. According to the Straits Times, Ronaldo smiled and expressed his desire to participate in Euro 2024. He explained that he is currently focused on achieving his short- and medium-term goals and that we will have to wait and see what happens next.
Well, that’s quite something to count on!
Besides that, it’s also worth noting that the decision is not entirely up to the players. The national team coaches will have a significant say. They need to balance the potential benefits of including experienced and influential players with developing younger talent for the future of their respective national teams.
In a Nutshell
In conclusion, while the prospect of seeing Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo play in the FIFA World Cup 2026 is tantalizing, it remains uncertain. Their participation will depend on a combination of factors, including their physical condition, form, desire to continue playing, and the strategic decisions of their national team coaches.
Regardless of whether they participate or not, their legacy in the world of football is undeniable. They have set a benchmark for future generations and have given fans unforgettable moments of brilliance on the pitch. As we look forward to the 2026 World Cup, we can only hope to see more players inspired by Messi and Ronaldo’s dedication, skill, and love for the beautiful game!
