Lionel Messi's international teammate insists competing is in the star's DNA and hopes he will play at the 2026 World Cup.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
- Messi's team-mate makes claim
- Insists Argentina career is not over
- "It's in his DNA"
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Messi has not yet made clear whether he will play in USA next summer, after he lifted the trophy in Qatar in 2022. His team-mate Nicolas Otamendi is confident he will be there, however.
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- AFP
WHAT OTAMENDI SAID
Otamendi told Radio La Red: "Obviously, as the World Cup gets closer, he will make his decision. But I don't see Leo missing out on the World Cup. Leo is Leo, the best player in soccer history."
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Messi was said to have completed football when inspiring Argentina's World Cup victory in 2022, scoring twice in the final as they beat France on penalties. He will turn 39 during next summer's tournament, though, and his involvement is far from certain.
- Getty Images Sport
WHAT NEXT FOR ARGENTINA?
Argentina are 10 points clear of second-place Ecuador in the CONMEBOL qualification standings and have booked their place at the tournament. They finish their campaign with games against Venezuela and Ecuador in September.
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