Lionel Messi is not ruling out another bid for World Cup glory with Argentina in 2026 despite acknowledging that time is working against him.

Messi, who recently won his eighth Ballon dOr, raised the World Cup almost a year ago after starring for Argentina in the final against France in Doha.

The 36-year-old had suggested at the time that the tournament in Qatar would be his last and that he wouldnt be around for the next tournament which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

But having moved to Major League Soccers Inter Miami and continued performing for the national team in qualifiers for 2026, he says the door remains open.

Im not thinking about the World Cup and Im not saying 100 percent that I wont be there because anything can happen. Because of my age, the most normal thing is that I wont be there. Then well see, said Messi in an interview with Argentinas Star+.

The Argentina captain said his focus on Junes Copa America which will be held in the United States.

Maybe well do well at the Copa America and everything will work out for us to continue. Maybe not. Realistically its difficult, he said of the chance of a sixth consecutive appearance in the World Cup.

Messi said he would be the first to know when I can be there and when I cant. Im also aware that Ive gone to a lesser league. But its all about the personal side of things and the way you deal with it and how you compete.

As long as I feel Im well and can continue to contribute, Im going to do it. Today all Im thinking about is getting to the Copa America. After that, time will tell if Im there or not.

Im going to arrive at an age that, normally, doesnt allow me to play in the World Cup. I said I dont think Im going to be there. It looked like after the World Cup I was retiring and it was the opposite. Now I want to be there more than ever, he added. (AFP)