Former Argentine star, Juan Riquelme, has confidently stated that Lionel Messi will lead Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. After Messi’s remarkable performances for Inter Miami, Riquelme believes the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has “reinvented himself” and is still capable of competing at the highest level.
Reflecting on Messi’s ongoing career, Riquelme told the AZZ channel, “Messi is reinventing himself. You never know what he can do. And I have no doubt that he will play in the next World Cup, he has to play. “
“We will all be rooting for him to play. I don’t tease him too much, but we talk a lot. That’s why I think he’s going to play. He’s very good, it’s something that’s not normal. And to that, he adds that he really likes to compete. He’s won a lot and he still wants to keep winning” he added as quoted by Goal.com.
Messi, who helped Argentina secure the Copa America in 2021 and then led his nation to World Cup glory in 2022, continues to be one of the most influential players in the world. Despite achieving virtually every milestone in football, his hunger for competition remains unmatched.
Also Read: Lionel Messi scores stellar brace on return as Inter Miami defeats Philadelphia Union
Lionel Messi ‘Reinventing’ Himself at Inter Miami
At 37, Messi recently returned from injury to score a brace in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over Philadelphia Union, showing he still has the determination to perform at an elite level.
Messi has scored 16 goals this season in 16 appearances, he is once again a leading contender for the MLS Golden Boot. The Argentine has also registered 12 assists as well despite missing three months of action.
His commitment and ability to adapt have made him a key figure for his MLS team and have convinced many, including Riquelme, that Messi is destined to take part in the 2026 World Cup, which would be his sixth appearance on the world stage.
With Messi still playing a pivotal role for both club and country, the anticipation is already building as Argentina look to defend their World Cup title. Fans worldwide, alongside Riquelme, remain hopeful that Messi will lead Argentina to further glory in 2026.
