“He is Not the Same” – Lionel Messi’s Ex-Teammate Quashes America’s Hopes to Witness Inter Miami Star at 2026 World Cup

Ever since Lionel Messi won the FIFA World Cup last year, the general consensus has been that La Pulga has completed soccer. While many saw his subsequent Inter Miami move as the beginning of the end, his mindboggling performances for the Herons have mesmerized American fans. They are clamoring for Leo to defend his World Cup in the 2026 edition which will be held on American soil. Unfortunately, their hopes might get crushed thanks to a comment made by Messi’s former teammate.

Former World Cup finalist Carlos Tevez, in a recent media appearance, crushed soccer fans with his brutal honesty. As per the ex-Manchester City striker, it’s unlikely that the USA will witness Leo playing in the World Cup.

Carlos Tevez believes it’s unlikely that Lionel Messi will be part of the 2026 World Cup in America

Former Argentina and Manchester City legend Carlos Tevez recently gave an exclusive interview to Spanish publication Clarin where he spoke about a host of things. The key highlight of the chat, however, was his answer to America’s burning question: Will Lionel Messi defend his World Cup on American soil? And to the surprise of many, Tevez replied negatively.

As per the former Juventus icon, just like any human being, Messi is bound to see a decline in his abilities with age. Tevez reasoned that Messi would also understand that his skills won’t match the expectations of his fans. And so, he would not be at the World Cup. “I don’t think so… as the World Cup gets nearer, he will realize that he is not the same and the expectation will be the same as when he was 20; and for those reasons, I think he will not go,” said Tevez. 

While Leo’s participation at the World Cup is all speculation at this point, what we can be sure of is that he will be present for Argentina this month in full fitness.

La Pulga will return in National colors this month

Last week, the Argentine Football Association announced the inclusion of Lionel Messi in the squad for their upcoming fixtures against Ecuador and Bolivia. Coach Lionel Scaloni, in fact, has managed to call up the entire World Cup-winning squad. The rationale behind this move is the fact that Scaloni wants to put his best foot forward in the World Cup qualifiers this month.

The gaffer would also be hoping that his World Cup-winning team can emulate the heroics of Qatar in the upcoming Copa America. For many veterans and icons like Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria;,winning the 2024 Copa would be a fitting end to their illustrious National Team career. Lastly, calling up the veterans for the next 12 months also buys enough time for the next generation to learn and take over.

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Do you see Lionel Messi successfully enjoying his one last dance with Argentina at the 2024 Copa America? Or will their rivals pull off a heartbreak for La Pulga? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!