Lionel Messi to miss Olympics but leaves door open for 2026 World Cup

by Selinda Phenyo
0 comments
Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi has confirmed that he will not attempt to win a second gold medal with Argentina at the Paris Olympics. Photo: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images/AFP

“I spoke with (Argentinian Olympic coach Javier) Mascherano, and we immediately agreed on the situation,” Inter Miami forward Messi said in the interview broadcast on Wednesday.

“It’s a difficult moment, because there’s the Copa America, and that would mean two or three consecutive months away from my club.

“At my age, I don’t want to play everything and I need to make the right choices,” added the former Barcelona star who was a member of Argentina’s 2008 Olympic gold medal winning team.

An inspired Lionel Messi scored from the penalty spot and Julian Alvarez struck twice as Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 on Tuesday to reach their second World Cup final in eight years.
An inspired Lionel Messi

Messi, who turns 37 on June 24, will be with defending champions Argentina at the Copa America from June 20 to July 14 in the United States, just a few weeks before the Olympics start on July 26.

Messi, however, has not closed the door on taking part in a record-breaking sixth World Cup, to be held in 2026 between the US, Canada and Mexico.

“It’s great to have records and continue to achieve things but I won’t take part in a World Cup just to say I’ve done six,” said Messi.

“If I feel good and everything is in place for me to be there, fine, but I won’t go just to go”.

“It’s very difficult to imagine what can happen because it’s still two years away. I don’t need to commit right now to whether or not I’ll be there.”

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi has confirmed that he will not attempt to win a second gold medal with Argentina at the Paris Olympics. Photo: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images/AFP
Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi has confirmed that he will not attempt to win a second gold medal with Argentina at the Paris Olympics. Photo: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images/AFP

AFP


Central News Special Edition 057: Download the latest special edition of Central News Print and Digital Newspaper. Top Story :  “Jacob Zuma’s MK Party Moves to Block Parliament’s First Sitting”

Download Here:

Read all our publications on magzter:

https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues

________________________

Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.

We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.

Advertisement:

To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za

For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za

Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za

General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za

Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za

Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487

Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za

Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : LinkedinFacebookTiktokTwitterInstagramYoutube

#centralnewsza #freestate

Related Articles

Leave a Comment

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept