Lionel Messi: Can He Lead Argentina to Glory in 2026?

As Lionel Messi approaches the twilight of his illustrious career, a compelling question emerges: Can the 38-year-old continue to lead Argentina to success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup? His continued brilliance at Inter Miami in MLS offers both hope and hesitation as he prepares for another shot at international glory.

Messi’s Evolution at Club Level

Since scoring his first goal for Barcelona in 2004, Messi has set numerous records and redefined the sport. His explosive talent stunned spectators during iconic performances, particularly in 2007, when he dazzled against Espanyol, weaving through defenders with exceptional skill.

Under Pep Guardiola, Messi transformed from a traditional striker into a "false 9," showcasing his creativity and vision. This evolution enabled him to rise to unprecedented heights, although his impact at the national level initially fell short. His fortunes reversed under Lionel Scaloni’s leadership, as Argentina restructured to support Messi, allowing him to thrive without bearing the entire burden.

Now, at Inter Miami, the club is implementing strategies to maximize Messi’s contributions while minimizing physical strain. The MLS season lasts from February to December, featuring a demanding schedule. However, Messi’s performance at the Club World Cup against heavyweights like Paris Saint-Germain and Palmeiras provided invaluable insights regarding his current capabilities and future prospects with the national team.

Adapting to a New Style

At Inter Miami, coach Javier Mascherano carefully manages Messi’s playing time, resting him in lower-stakes matches to preserve energy for crucial moments. While his speed may have diminished, Messi’s tactical approach has matured. He now prioritizes selective movement and playmaking over the breakneck pace that once characterized his play.

Though statistics illustrate a shift—such as a decline in meters traveled per carry—his sharp decision-making remains intact. For instance, during the Club World Cup, Messi averaged 5.5 meters per carry, consistent with his performances in Europe, while his attempts per game decreased, indicating a precision-driven style.

Messi’s ability to influence games even in less-than-optimal conditions speaks volumes about his skill set. During the Club World Cup, despite experiencing discomfort, he scored a crucial goal against Porto, underscoring his resilience and desire to win.

Challenges Ahead for Argentina

Now the question looms: How will Messi’s evolving role on the pitch translate to Argentina’s ambitions in 2026? Following the 4-0 loss to PSG in the Club World Cup round of 16, doubts surfaced regarding his ability to perform at the highest level consistently. Aged 38, it’s unrealistic to expect Messi to replicate his past peaks, but his recent performances speak to his capacity to adapt.

The synergy between Messi and Scaloni has been crucial in maximizing the team’s potential. Scaloni’s strategies have relied extensively on Messi, but questions are being raised about the sustainability of this approach. The national team witnessed a remarkable transformation during the 2019 and 2021 Copa América tournaments, where Messi emerged as a robust leader, collaborating and inspiring teammates effectively.

Argentina’s Newfound Confidence

Despite doubts about Messi’s physical condition, the team showed resilience during the 2024 Copa América, hinting at a future beyond the legendary forward. Case in point: Argentina performed well in matches without Messi, showcasing newfound confidence and tactical adaptability.

Scaloni has begun exploring alternatives in the absence of Messi, experimenting with players like Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez. This diversification portends a promising shift where the squad seems less reliant on its star player, potentially easing the pressure on Messi to carry the team solo.

A Legacy in Transition

With Messi’s supporting cast maturing into strong contributors, the future looks slightly more optimistic for both him and the national team. As Argentina seeks to build a cohesive unit that can perform well in the World Cup, the blend of experience and youthful energy could be exactly what they need.

What remains uncertain is whether Messi will officially confirm his participation next year. Nevertheless, the possibilities are tantalizing. While he navigates the complexities of age and evolving game dynamics, the unique relationship he maintains with Scaloni and the younger squad members might just pave the way for another glorious chapter in his storied career.

This rich tapestry continues to unfold, leaving fans eager to witness how Messi will leave his mark, not just on the pitch, but on the annals of football history once again.