According to reports, Messi missed Argentina’s World Cup 2026 qualifiers in March due to injury, raising questions about whether he can still compete in another major tournament.

However, his former teammate and current Inter Miami coach has no doubts that the national team captain, who will be 39 years old during the next World Cup, has the physical capability to participate.

Mascherano told reporters: “Physically and in terms of leg strength, I have no doubts about him. Mentally, it’s the same. But these are personal decisions. It’s his choice whether to play in the World Cup or not. I shouldn’t give an opinion. I can’t say anything because I’m not in his head. The only thing I can say as an Argentine is that I definitely want him to play.”

“These decisions are very personal. I try not to interfere. I can express my wish—it’s not my opinion, it’s my wish—that I hope he plays. First as an Argentine, and second as a fan of the sport. We’ll see what happens.”

Messi achieved the last possible honor of his football career in 2022 by lifting the World Cup in Qatar after Argentina’s victory over France in the final. Now a star in American football, where the next World Cup will be held, he will once again be one of the main figures of the tournament if he participates.