Lionel Messi unlikely to miss FIFA World Cup Nicolás Otamendi

FIFA World Cup: Benfica defender Nicolás Otamendi has firmly expressed his belief that Lionel Messi is unlikely to miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As speculation continues around Messi’s plans for what would be his sixth appearance at the global tournament, Otamendi’s comments come as a strong vote of confidence in the Argentine captain’s enduring ambition and commitment.

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The FIFA World Cup remains the pinnacle of international football, and according to Otamendi, Messi’s competitive spirit and love for the game make it hard to imagine him stepping away from the grand stage just yet. Messi, who celebrated his 38th birthday on Tuesday, continues to shine with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and is currently participating in the FIFA World Cup.

His focus on the present has been clear, but the proximity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico raises the question of whether he’ll aim for one final international tournament. Otamendi, speaking to Radio La Red, acknowledged that Messi will decide closer to the event, but he strongly believes the legendary forward won’t want to miss out on another chance to represent Argentina on football’s biggest stage, the FIFA World Cup.

Messi Eyes FIFA World Cup 2026 Glory

With a career spanning over two decades, Messi’s connection to the FIFA World Cup has been nothing short of historic. From his debut in 2006 to lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022, Messi’s name has become synonymous with the tournament. Otamendi, who has played alongside him since 2009, stressed that Messi’s desire to compete and help his team is ingrained in his DNA.

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This unwavering drive is one of the reasons why Otamendi can’t picture the next FIFA World Cup without Messi’s presence on the field. As he put it, Leo is a once-in-a-generation player whose hunger never fades. Messi’s current form also suggests he’s far from finished. With 10 goals and six assists in just 13 league matches for Inter Miami this season, he was named MLS Player of the Month for May.

His performances show that even at 38, he remains among the best in the world, making a strong case for another FIFA World Cup campaign. The FIFA World Cup would not only be an opportunity for Messi to extend his legacy but also to guide a new generation of Argentine talent on the global stage. The triumph in Qatar was the crowning moment of Messi’s international career.

Messi Fueled for Football World Cup 2026 as Intensity Rises

Argentina’s rollercoaster journey from a shocking loss to Saudi Arabia in their opening match to eventually winning the tournament was a storybook ending for a player many regard as the greatest of all time. But rather than closing a chapter, that FIFA World Cup victory has perhaps added fuel to Messi’s competitive fire. After winning the 2024 Copa América, his motivation to continue may be stronger than ever, especially with Argentina already qualified for the next FIFA World Cup.

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While Messi’s future remains a hot topic, elsewhere in the FIFA World Cup, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is focused on improving his team’s collective efforts. He emphasized the need for all 11 players, including stars like Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé, to contribute defensively ahead of their final group match against Salzburg.

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The FIFA World Cup-style atmosphere of the FIFA World Cup has brought out high levels of intensity, highlighting areas where even elite teams can improve. Alonso’s emphasis on pressing and defensive unity reflects the demands placed on teams aspiring to perform well in FIFA World Cup-level competitions. The competitiveness of the FIFA World Cup was further highlighted when Inter Milan secured a dramatic 2-0 victory over River Plate.

Inter Advance in World Cup Style Thriller

The Italian giants, who are also chasing success reminiscent of FIFA World Cup drama, struck twice late in the match to book their place in the knockout stage. Francesco Esposito’s clinical finish and Alessandro Bastoni’s stoppage-time goal sent River packing and showed the kind of mental toughness needed to thrive in FIFA World Cup-style knockout games. The FIFA World Cup continues to mirror many traits seen in the FIFA World Cup, including passion, intensity, and heartbreak.

Inter’s match against River Plate was also filled with FIFA World Cup-style controversy and tension. Two red cards, missed chances, and late drama echoed the high stakes that define international tournaments. Lucas Martínez Quarta’s dismissal and Gonzalo Montiel’s red in stoppage time left River in disarray, while Inter’s calmness under pressure helped them top the group.

The parallels with FIFA World Cup play are clear: discipline, composure, and timely execution often make the difference between progression and elimination. For the 19-year-old Francesco Esposito, his goal marked a breakout moment on a stage that feels like a mini FIFA World Cup. His development and ability to perform in high-pressure situations suggest he could be a name to watch in future FIFA World Cup tournaments.

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Messi Legacy and New Stars Shape FIFA 2026 Future

With young talents like him stepping up in major international FIFA events, the pathway to FIFA World Cup glory becomes more tangible for rising stars. Esposito’s blend of skill and confidence under pressure mirrors the kind of traits that have defined Messi’s FIFA World Cup career. As the FIFA World Cup unfolds, stories continue to emerge that resemble those seen in the FIFA World Cup tales of young heroes, fallen giants, and tactical evolution.

Real Madrid’s tactical shifts under Alonso and Inter’s resilience serve as reminders of how the FIFA World Cup influences team philosophies across competitions. These tournaments help prepare FIFAs and players alike for the pressures of the FIFA World Cup, creating a bridge between FIFA excellence and international glory.

Back in the spotlight, Lionel Messi continues to carry the hopes of a nation. Whether he ultimately chooses to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains to be seen, but few doubt his capability to make an impact if he does. His legacy, deeply rooted in his FIFA World Cup performances, may yet have another chapter to write.

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