Inter Miami’s star ahead, Lionel Messi, has set tongues wagging with a cryptic Instagram put up that might doubtlessly trace at an surprising return to the World Cup stage in 2026.
The Argentine maestro, Sunday shared a snapshot of himself clad within the legendary Argentina jersey worn by the revered Diego Maradona in the course of the 1994 World Cup within the United States – a event that marked Maradona’s swan track on the grandest soccer stage.
This provocative transfer by the 36-year-old Messi has ignited a frenzy of hypothesis, particularly after his resolute declaration that he had no intentions of partaking in any future World Cup tournaments following his triumphant victory in Qatar 2022.
But now, the ever-enigmatic GOAT appears to have left a glimmer of hope, teasing a chance of a grand encore.
In a candid chat with Titan Sports forward of Argentina’s pleasant match towards Australia in Beijing, Messi intriguingly remarked, “I think not. This was my last World Cup. I’ll see how things go but in principle, I won’t go to the next World Cup.”
However, as Messi continues to weave his magic on the Major League Soccer (MLS) stage, hypothesis mounts that he would possibly simply be considering one ultimate “last dance” within the World Cup enviornment – a transfer that may very well be poetic in additional methods than one.
The tantalizing prospect of witnessing Messi observe within the footsteps of the late Maradona provides to the attract.
The chic playmaker could grace the 2026 World Cup, hosted collectively by the U.S., Canada and Mexico, on the ripe age of 39.
Returning to the Americas for the second time in his illustrious profession, this is able to mark Messi’s sixth look within the prestigious event, a chance that few gamers are blessed with.
And seeing him don the cherished Argentina jersey with the long-lasting No.10 emblazoned on its again solely fuels anticipations.
To move up the possibility to win a second World Cup appears out of character for the fierce competitor, who as soon as emerged from worldwide retirement in 2016 to in the end hoist the coveted trophy a couple of years later.
Now, with the dazzling lights of the MLS illuminating his path, one can not help however surprise if he is quietly getting ready for one final shot at World Cup glory.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
