Messi World Cup 2026 in the Balance: Mascherano Drops a Teasing Hint
3 February 2026
Official Confirmation Still Pending
No official confirmation yet for Messi's participation in the 2026 World Cup, and fans will have to wait for an official announcement.
Mascherano's Hints and the Road Ahead
However, Mascherano's comments as Inter Miami's coach have reignited the football world's excitement.
After Inter Miami's friendly in Colombia during a South American tour, the question everyone's asking was addressed, and his answer quickly hit the headlines.
When asked about Messi and the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada, Mascherano did not hesitate, sparking hope among fans eager to see the Argentine icon defend the title.
According to Marca, Mascherano replied with a straightforward answer that lit the spark of hope: "Yes, why not?"
He added, "I like to stay close to the players and, above all, to understand what they feel. No one knows better than them how their bodies respond."
He pointed to the crowded schedule and the importance of managing the physical load throughout the season.
He also expressed confidence in the Argentine squad's future, saying, "Argentina will play the World Cup in the best possible way. They have competed at a very high level for a long time and possess exceptional players."
While many believe Messi will ultimately be part of Lionel Scaloni's final selection, there is no official confirmation yet, and the uncertainty could linger until weeks before the tournament.
If Messi participates, he would join Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa (if Mexico selects him) as the only players to have appeared in six World Cups.
Having played 26 World Cup matches, Messi is currently the most-capped player in the tournament's history—a further milestone in a career that may not be over yet.
In the end, if Messi goes, even the trophy might need a rain check to catch up with him.
And if he doesn't go, well, the World Cup will still be full of drama—the only thing missing will be Messi missing from the highlight reel.
