Messi keeps fans guessing on 2026 World Cup, future beyond MLS, and Barça legacy

Lionel Messi is an internationally known name, and what he has done with Inter Miami and Major League Soccer only adds weight his name carries. However, during a recent interview with Fabrizio Romano, the Argentine star made it clear: while he's enjoying this new phase in the U.S., he's in no rush to make decisions about the future-especially regarding the 2026 World Cup set to take place in the U.S. alongside Mexico and Canada.

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Messi spoke about what was in his mind during the time spent on the pitch, his retirement plans, and enjoying the moment. We break down for you the main takeaways from this interview and what it spells for this Argentine star.

2026 World Cup

A possible appearance in the 2026 World Cup-at this, Messi made it crystal clear that he isn't one for promises: "We're close but at the same time, far. I don't think about it, I just live day by day." His words, "I just live day by day," perfectly depict his attitude to enjoy each game, never thinking about the weight of another World Cup, after all, he has already reached his climax, lifting the trophy with Argentina, realizing his chief dream in his career.

The Future in Soccer and Beyond

Messi also shared his plans for retirement, and his answer came as candid as it was unexpected. "I wouldn't like to be a coach," he said, making it clear that he doesn't see himself in that role, unlike some of his former teammates, like Lionel Scaloni and Xavi. Concluding, he prefers to keep decisions about his career for later, "I still don't know the next step after retirement." The world of soccer is light years away from the only avenue once he hangs up his boots. The fans have started seeing more clearly that while Messi's focus has always been on the field, off the pitch he enjoys keeping a distance.

Winning with Inter Miami and Impact on MLS

Messi has brought worldwide attention to Major League Soccer and the culture of soccer in the United States. Already, he has won the Leagues Cup with Inter Miami and this season's Supporters' Shield in the regular season. He infuses a fresh, new momentum into the club. "It was gorgeous, because to win some titles is important," he pointed out, noting that Inter Miami had come out of a difficult year, which made this victory significant to him and the club as well.

But on the MLS, Messi did not mince his words: "There's so much passion, and it's something I didn't fully realize." What surprised him was the energy of the fans and the power of teams whenever they play on their home fields. For a person who has been used to Europe's top leagues, seeing this kind of intensity in American soccer simply surprises him.

He also explained that the star underlined MLS is another competition, different in style, where some dribbles have been changed to passing. "Honestly, I changed my style because of time and my age, and I adapt to everything". As for Messi, now, the goal is to help Inter Miami in the most effective way, keeping his essence while exploring other ways of playing.

Barcelona and Argentina: Bonds That Never Break

There is no doubt that Barcelona and Argentina mean a great deal to him. "Barcelona was so important for me; I love the club and the fans. I achieved everything there, he revealed, a touch wistfully, as if his affinity with Barça reached further than a player, but Messi became a legend there.

About Argentina, he is equally emotional: "I also won everything there, and thank God that with both jerseys I became champion." This sums up Messi's feelings of gratitude about having achieved what many dream and few can envision. Today, even in his MLS career, he carries forward respect and love for the clubs and nations which shaped his story.

"I'll Leave It for People to Decide": Messi's Legacy

In an interview with Romano about how he would wish to be remembered, Messi was arrogant but determined: "I'll leave it for people to decide." He went on to say that the most important thing now in his life was simply family and love for the game. Being an example to his kids, who already love critiquing his games, is one of his carry-along joys at this stage in life.

For Messi, though-the real legacy is not in obsessing over how he will be remembered, but in the journey he has created. When his achievements on the field and respect gained last, then he feels fulfilled.

A New Era for American Soccer

The presence of Messi at Inter Miami and increased growth of MLS create the backdrop for the soccer scene in the U.S. Messi is the real prize as the country prepares to host the 2026 World Cup, putting a spotlight on American soccer that few others could provide. "It's amazing to see full stadiums in every away game," he said, reflecting on a country whose passion for the sport is now close to boiling. As he raises the profile of the league, MLS is seizing this opportunity to establish itself as a competitive force globally.