Lionel Messi not expecting to play at 2026 World Cup

Inter Miami and Argentina attacker Lionel Messi has conceded that he does not expect to play at the 2026 World Cup to help La Albiceleste defend their title.

The 35-year-old ended over a decade of heartbreak on the biggest international stage in Qatar to propel Argentina to their first World Cup crown since 1986.

Messi came up with seven goals and three assists in the Middle East as Lionel Scaloni's men bested France on penalties following an astonishing final, during which the attacker scored twice in a 3-3 draw after 120 minutes before collecting the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain attacker decided not to hang up his international boots after his triumphant World Cup exploits, . . .