Lionel Messi has revealed that he spent almost a year preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying he made significant sacrifices to ensure he arrived at the tournament in peak physical condition. The Argentina captain made the disclosure after leading the defending champions into the World Cup final, where they will face Spain.
Speaking after Argentina’s semi-final victory, Messi said:
“I have been preparing for this World Cup for almost a year. I spent December in Argentina, training morning and afternoon, because I knew I was going to give everything to arrive in the best possible shape.”
At 39, the Inter Miami star has carefully managed his workload throughout the tournament, contributing crucial goals and assists as Argentina advanced through the knockout stages before booking a second consecutive World Cup final.
Fans and pundits have praised his dedication, pointing to his disciplined preparation as a major factor behind another outstanding World Cup campaign. Argentina will now face Spain with the opportunity to defend their world title and further cement Messi’s legendary international legacy.
