At 38 during the tournament, Messi has not set specific goals for himself regarding the World Cup, which begins in June 2026.

Messi emphasized the need to stay fit during the demanding 2025 MLS season with Inter Miami, which includes many scheduled games.

The upcoming season will be particularly challenging, with significant fixtures, including the Club World Cup in June.

To help preserve his fitness, Inter Miami has implemented a load management strategy, with coach Javier Mascherano exercising caution regarding Messi's match appearances.

Mascherano expressed hope that Messi will choose to play in the World Cup, noting his continued high level of performance.

While he acknowledges the World Cup is on his mind, Messi prefers to focus on his day-to-day performance and health rather than establishing strict future goals.

As he approaches the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Messi, now 37, has expressed uncertainty about his participation, emphasizing that it will depend on his fitness.

He has highlighted the importance of maintaining good physical condition throughout the season, especially after facing injuries in the past year.

Messi's teammate, Luis Suarez, revealed that Messi is eager to help Argentina defend its World Cup title, despite their lighthearted discussions about retirement.

Overall this season, he has recorded eight goals and three assists in ten games across MLS and the Concacaf Champions Cup, showcasing his ongoing effectiveness.

Lionel Messi has had a remarkable World Cup journey, debuting in 2006 and winning the title in 2022, and Argentina has already secured its place for the upcoming 2026 tournament.

Despite dealing with injuries, Messi has started the current season strong, scoring three goals and providing two assists in seven matches.