As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Argentina faces a defining question: can they repeat as champions — with or without Lionel Messi? A new generation rises as Scaloni reshapes the squad for a historic challenge.
By April 2026, Lionel Messi is 38 years old — a remarkable age for any elite footballer, let alone one expected to carry a national team through a grueling 48-team World Cup. While Messi has defied time with 17 goals and 12 assists for Inter Miami in the 2025-26 MLS season, concerns remain over his physical durability. He has played limited minutes in high-intensity matches, often substituted before the 70th minute to manage fatigue and chronic knee inflammation.
Although Messi has hinted at the 2026 World Cup being his "last dance", no official confirmation has been made. Experts suggest that even if he travels with the squad, his role may be that of a tactical substitute rather than a starter.
"His impact isn't measured in goals anymore, but in moments of magic that change games," noted a FIFA technical analyst.The final decision rests with manager Lionel Scaloni and the medical staff.
Argentina’s depth has never been stronger. Julián Álvarez has evolved into a world-class forward, scoring 22 goals across all competitions for Manchester City this season. At midfield, Enzo Fernández (Chelsea) has averaged a 92% pass accuracy in Premier League and Champions League play, while Alexis Mac Allister has become a leader at Liverpool with 11 goals and 9 assists. The emergence of Alexis Garnacho — 14 goals for Manchester United — adds explosive pace and creativity to the flanks.
This core, aged between 21 and 26, has already tasted success, winning the 2024 Copa América and the 2025 Finalissima. Scaloni has praised their maturity, stating they are "not successors, but builders of a new era." The transition is no longer theoretical — it’s operational.
Since lifting the trophy in Doha, Scaloni has moved away from rigid formations. Argentina now operates in a fluid 4-2-3-1 system, capable of shifting into a 3-4-3 in attack. The emphasis is on high pressing, with wingers like Garnacho and Nicolás González leading the press. Defensively, the backline remains anchored by Gonzalo Montiel and Christopherson Romero, while Emiliano Martínez continues to deliver under pressure, recording 15 clean sheets this season for Aston Villa.
The midfield balance between Fernández’s deep control and Mac Allister’s box-to-box energy has proven effective. Scaloni has also integrated younger defenders like Lucas Martínez Quarta and Nehuén Pérez, ensuring squad depth ahead of the expanded tournament format.
Argentina has been drawn into Group F alongside Japan, Ghana, and Honduras — a favorable draw that allows for squad rotation and injury management. All three opponents are beatable, though Japan’s technical midfield could pose a challenge. The top-two finish is expected, likely securing a Round of 32 clash against either Panama or Tunisia.
A potential quarter-final against France or Portugal looms, followed by a possible semi-final with Spain or Brazil. The new format increases randomness in early knockout stages, but Argentina’s experience in tight matches — exemplified by their penalty shootout wins in 2022 — gives them an edge.
Only two nations have achieved this: Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962). Argentina enters 2026 as one of the top five favorites, with bookmakers giving them a 25% chance — third behind Spain and Germany. Opta’s model suggests their odds drop to 15% if Messi is absent, but rise to 30% with even a limited role.
This team has the tactical discipline, leadership, and emotional resilience to win without Messi. However, his presence — even symbolic — could be the spark in a tight knockout game. Prediction: Argentina reaches the final, defeats Brazil 2-1 after extra time, becoming the first team in 64 years to win consecutive World Cups.
Q: Will Messi play at the 2026 World Cup?
A: It’s unconfirmed. At 38, his participation depends on fitness and manager Lionel Scaloni’s assessment. He may play a limited, impact role if selected.
Q: How old is Messi at the 2026 World Cup?
A: Messi will be 38 years old during the tournament, which runs from June to July 2026.
Q: Has any team won back-to-back World Cups?
A: Yes — Italy (1934 & 1938) and Brazil (1958 & 1962). No team has done it since, making Argentina’s 2026 bid historic.