Benfica defender Nicolás Otamendi has said he doesn't expect Argentina teammate Lionel Messi to miss the 2026 World Cup. Messi was the most valuable player at the last World Cup but has yet to confirm if he intends to play in next year's tournament.

Lionel Messi’s international and club teammates both share the same opinion about the Argentine’s involvement at the next World Cup.

Inter Miami’s electrifying qualification for the Club World Cup last 16 has reignited fervent speculation about Lionel Messi’s international future. Jordi Alba’s bold claim that Messi could play for “many more years” sent fans into a frenzy.