Lionel Messi leaves the door open for the 2026 World Cup, stating, “We will see.”
On Thursday, Inter Miami’s star player added yet another accolade to his impressive collection. Messi was honored as the inaugural recipient of the MARCA America Award, a recognition bestowed by the prominent Spanish media outlet. This award celebrates his extraordinary career, highlighted by a staggering 46 trophies won at both the club and international levels, along with over 56 individual honors.
During a moderated Q&A session at Chase Stadium, Messi reflected on his remarkable journey, saying in Spanish, “We have experienced so many beautiful things but also complicated moments. In 20 years not everything is beautiful. You cannot win all the time.”
For Messi, the pinnacle of his achievements remains the 2022 World Cup victory with Argentina, a triumph that solidified his status among the sport’s all-time greats. At 37, he continues to seek more titles, adding to his legacy established at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. Since joining Inter Miami in July 2023, he has already contributed to the team’s success.
Despite facing challenges this season, including an ankle injury and international commitments limiting him to 18 MLS matches, Messi has made a significant impact with 17 goals and 15 assists. His performance has been crucial in leading Miami to the 2024 Supporters Shield, ensuring they will enjoy home-field advantage throughout the upcoming MLS Cup playoffs.
“I was able to achieve the biggest prize, which is the World Cup,” Messi stated after scoring three goals and providing two assists in a recent World Cup qualifier against Bolivia. “It is the trophy all of us want when we start playing, and I managed to fulfill my dream. We won many titles in Barcelona, Paris. Now we are here with the objective to fight hard for another title.”
Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami extends through next season. Following his recent stellar performance, he appears ready to maintain his commitments with Argentina as they move toward the next World Cup cycle.
“In the moment, we will see,” he remarked. “I don’t like to accelerate time or look ahead. I try to enjoy every day. I hope I can keep playing at this level to feel good and be happy.”
