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Messi values being “happy” over reaching 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi said that his priority is to stay happy and healthy, rather than focusing on reaching the 2026 World Cup.

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Messi prioritizes being “happy” over reaching 2026 World Cup

Messi, 37, struck a vintage hat trick in Argentina’s dominant 6-0 win over Bolivia in South American World Cup qualifying.

The Argentine superstar expressed his desire to cherish every game, acknowledging, “I know these could be my last games.”

Although the 2026 World Cup is still a possibility for Messi, he said that at this stage in his career, he values his happiness more.

“In the moment, we will see,” Messi said Thursday after receiving the America legend award from Spanish publication Marca. “I don’t like to accelerate time or look ahead. I try to enjoy every day, and I hope I can keep playing at this level to feel good and be happy.

“When I get to do what I love, I am happy. I value that more than reaching the 2026 tournament. I haven’t set a goal to reach the World Cup, but more so to live day-to-day and be well.”

Expect more from Messi

Messi began his international career with Argentina’s senior side in 2005.

Overall, he has 112 goals in 189 appearances for Argentina, having featured in every major tournament since his debut.

The forward led his team to two Copa América trophies, one Finalissima win, and the highly-coveted 2022 World Cup title.

Despite having 48 major trophies in his career, Messi remains determined to keep succeeding with Inter Miami.

“The step I took to come here [to Inter Miami] didn’t mean retiring,” he said. “We came here to try and keep making this team big, to help the development by winning titles, which we have and we’re close to clinching more.”