As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, German veteran Thomas Müller has weighed in on the potential participation of Lionel Messi. While Argentina prepares to defend their title across the USA, Mexico, and Canada, the captain’s presence remains the tournament's biggest question mark.
The "Messi Factor"
Müller, now playing for the Vancouver Whitecaps, noted that if Messi decides to play in a record-breaking sixth World Cup, it would be an "interesting project." However, he warned that Messi’s inclusion could "change the whole balance of the team, for better or for worse." This assessment comes from a player who has faced Messi 11 times, holding a superior 7-4 head-to-head record, though Messi’s Inter Miami recently defeated Müller’s Whitecaps to claim the MLS title.
Group Stage Outlook
The tournament draw has placed the defending champions and Germany into their respective paths of Argentina (Group J): The Albiceleste will face Algeria (June 16), Austria (June 22), and Jordan (June 26).
Germany (Group B): Müller, though retired from international duty, expects Germany to progress through a group featuring Ivory Coast, Ecuador, and Curacao.
Messi has yet to confirm his participation, stating he evaluates his physical condition "day by day." If he plays, he joins Cristiano Ronaldo as the only players to feature in six editions. Despite his age, his influence remains a focal point for rivals and fans alike as the June 11 kickoff approaches.
Interest in the Inter Miami-Vancouver Whitecaps rivalry has spiked following their recent MLS Cup clash on December 6. Local fans in Vancouver are keeping a close eye on Müller’s transition to the MLS, while global focus remains on Messi’s training regimen in Miami.
Argentina’s coaching staff is expected to provide a preliminary roster update by early spring 2026, which may finally clarify Messi's "day-by-day" status.
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