Menotti: “Messi will play at the next World Cup”

César Luis Menotti may be one of the most influential voices in Argentine football. ‘El Flaco’ was the the coach and architect behind the Albiceleste securing their first star, leading the side to victory at the ‘78 World Cup, in Argentina. Speaking on the Los Más Grandes radio show, the coach was asked on his views on Leo Messi’s chances of playing at the 2026 World Cup.

“I suppose Messi will make it to the next World Cup. The MLS is a different league and has nothing to do with playing against the likes of Chacarita Juniors, Flandria nor with Central Córdoba de Rosario (historic soccer clubs in Argentina). The years are not going to forgive him either and he is fine now but it all depends on how he continues to maintain his condition, he looks good but there is still a long way to go. It will depend on him more than anything,” Menotti reflected in the interview.

Copa America and World Cup loom

Argentina will defend their title in 2026 with the competition set to be staged in Canada, Mexico and the United States. When the tournament comes around, Messi will be 39 and possibly be one of the oldest players involved in the tournament. Staying fit and in optimum shape is the key for the player for Rosario and this will depend on how his body responds in the next two years to the rigors of playing in the MLS with Inter Miami.

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As the body gets older, injuries become harder to evade and take longer to heal with recurrent muscular issues ruling the striker out of the 2023 season run-in and forcing him to much of the Heron’s ambitious international pre-season campaign.

Messi’s first big international test will take place this summer as Lionel Scaloni’s side are set to defend their Copa America throne with the 2024 edition also set to be stages on US soil. There is also a slender possibility that Javier Mascherano may call upon Messi to represent Argentina at the Paris Olympic Games with Messi set to fulfil one of the over-age slots.