Lionel Messi Confirms His “Last Dance” at the World Cup

Lionel Messi and the Argentina national football team have officially announced their squad for the World Cup, with Messi included as expected. He also spoke about what could be his “last dance” on football’s biggest stage.

Messi said:
“It’s hard to explain what this moment means to me. When I first played in a World Cup, I was just a kid chasing a dream. Now, after football has given me everything, I have the chance to represent Argentina at a sixth World Cup… honestly, it fills me with so many emotions.

I know this could be my last dance on football’s biggest stage. Every World Cup has left me with memories — painful moments, beautiful victories, lessons, pressure, and joy. But after winning the World Cup with Argentina, what I feel most now is peace and pride.

People always ask me if I feel pressure. Of course there’s pressure. When you wear this shirt, you always want to win for your country, for your family, and for all the fans around the world who support us.

I don’t know what will happen in 2026, but I can promise one thing: I will enjoy every second of it. Every national anthem, every match, every training session, every moment with my teammates. Because moments like these don’t last forever.

Football has given me everything. Argentina has given me everything. Now, I just want to fight one more time, play one more World Cup for this badge, and enjoy my final World Cup journey together with all Argentinians. See you at the World Cup!”