Lionel Messi Goes 29 Years Back in Time to Give a Fitting Tribute to Diego Maradona as He Hints at 2026 World Cup Participation

When Pele arrived to play for the New York Cosmos in 1975, fans filled the stands to witness the soccer legend in action. He transformed the league, bringing eyeballs to the MLS. 48 years later, Lionel Messi arrived similarly, looking like a man on a mission. Influencing soccer in the country in the finest way possible, he is the man of the moment wherever he goes. The Argentineans love him just like they loved Diego Maradona. The charismatic soccer star drew opinions from all parts of the pitch for his vibrant character. In fact, Messi paid tribute to his hero in the best way possible. 

Maradona’s last World Cup in 1994 marked the end of his career after a failed drug test. Therefore, Messi donned one of the famous jerseys used in 1994. Did he drop major hints for the future?

Lionel Messi dons Diego Maradona’s famous Argentinean colors!

In his recent Instagram stories, he posted a brief clip of Messi in a 1994 World Cup jersey. The jersey had the number 10 etched in the back, the same used by Maradona in 1994. Messi declared he wouldn’t play in another World Cup, despite winning it this year. Therefore, that ship has sailed. But there is a hook to this clip. Maradona put on the 1994 Argentinean jersey, worn by Messi during his last World Cup held in the USA. 

But in that World Cup, he played just 173 minutes and was later sent home after failing a drug test. In one goal he scored, he celebrated with uncontrolled aggression as cameras zoomed in on his angry face. Apart from playing soccer, he caught himself in various controversial cases and with substance abuse. Although his final World Cup was one to neglect, he spectacularly won the 1986 World Cup. As for Messi, he carried the legacy of the number 10 player in the best way possible. 

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He played his heart out during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, scoring seven goals, and creating three assists. After failing in 2014 to lift the coveted trophy for his nation, Messi returned, determined to make amends. With the 2026 tournament scheduled to be held in the USA, did he just drop a serious hint?

Back for the 2026 USA World Cup?

Messi wearing the same 1994 USA World Cup jersey is a symbol that he might not be finished yet. He is still playing at the highest level, scoring goals for fun. Appearing for the next World Cup would be astonishing, considering he will be 39 in 2023. 

However, the technical ability never fades away, and there are instances of players playing at the highest level. To sum up, it would be a dream come true for the soccer fraternity to watch him play again. Will he appear in the next World Cup?

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