The question that has lingered in every football fan's mind may finally have an answer on the horizon. Lionel Messi, the talismanic Argentine who fulfilled a lifelong dream by lifting the FIFA World Cup in 2022, has finally opened up about the possibility of donning the Argentina shirt one last time at the 2026 edition of the tournament.

In an exclusive conversation with ESPN's Simplemente Futbol, the Inter Miami superstar admitted he continues to contemplate his involvement in what would be his sixth World Cup appearance. While the decision is not yet final, Messi's words have reignited hope among fans desperate to see the iconic No. 10 take centre stage once more on football's grandest platform.

"This year will be important to see what I decide regarding the 2026 World Cup," Messi told former Argentine international Enrique Wolff. "I would lie if I told you I'm not thinking about it."

Footballing circles have long been abuzz with debates over whether the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner would extend his international career into another World Cup cycle. Having lifted the coveted trophy in 2022 following a dramatic final against France, Messi has little left to prove. Yet the allure of one last dance in an Argentina shirt remains strong.

"Honestly, no. If you think about it, it feels far away, but time flies. This year is going to be important for me—being able to play consistently, feeling good," Messi reflected.

His journey since the 2022 World Cup triumph has been nothing short of remarkable. After conquering Qatar, Messi swapped Paris for Miami in 2023, breathing new life into Major League Soccer and racking up goals and assists with his trademark flair. He has reportedly agreed to a contract extension with Inter Miami that factors in his physical conditioning ahead of the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

With fewer than 18 months to go until kick-off, Messi's physical preparedness remains a key concern—not just for Argentina supporters, but also for Inter Miami. The MLS side has adopted a careful load management strategy to keep their star player in prime condition. While Messi has missed some matches due to muscular fatigue and minor injuries, he has bounced back impressively, tallying eight goals and three assists in 10 appearances this season.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has publicly stated that the door to 2026 remains open for Messi, and that the decision rests entirely with the player. And while the final call is still pending, Messi's measured comments suggest he is not ruling anything out.

"Of course you think about it and keep it in mind," he said. "But you don't want to set strict goals either. It's about living day by day, seeing how I feel physically above all, and being honest with myself about whether I'm up for it or not."

For now, Messi continues to dazzle in Miami while subtly hinting at what could be the most poetic farewell in football history. Whether the legendary No. 10 returns for one final World Cup remains uncertain—but the dream, for fans and player alike, is still alive.