Messi reveals year-long grin behind Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final run

Lionel Messi has revealed the extraordinary sacrifices behind Argentina’s charge to the 2026 World Cup final, saying he spent nearly a full year preparing specifically for the tournament.

Speaking after Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 semifinal comeback victory over England—where he provided both assists—the 39-year-old captain opened up about the doubts, discussions, and relentless training that defined his journey.

“To be honest, I thought about it until the last moment, analyzing the situation and discussing it regularly with Scaloni,” Messi said. “I prepared and did everything possible to arrive in my best shape so I could enjoy this moment—as my way of enjoying football is feeling good, being useful to the team, and constantly being a key player in this group.”

A Year of Sacrifice

Messi revealed his preparation began almost a year before the tournament. In a particularly telling detail, he spent the entire month of December in Argentina—away from his club Inter Miami—training morning and evening in a dedicated fitness camp.

“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,” he said.

This was not routine club training. According to teammate Rodrigo De Paul, Messi maintained double training sessions daily beyond his Inter Miami commitments, with additional strength and resistance work. His routine focused heavily on upper body and core conditioning, including pull-ups and functional strength exercises.

“I didn’t leave anything to chance,” Messi added.

Record-Breaking Form

The results speak for themselves. Messi has recorded eight goals and four assists in the tournament—joint-top scorer and second-highest assist provider. His all-time World Cup tally now stands at 21 goals and 12 assists across a record six tournaments.

Against England, he completed nine dribbles—more than the entire England team combined (seven)—and created four chances with nine crosses.

“That’s why he’s the king,” BBC pundit Micah Richards said.

What Lies Ahead

Argentina now faces Spain in Sunday’s final in New Jersey—a particularly poignant opponent for Messi, who spent most of his career at Barcelona.

“Spain is a huge national team with extraordinary players. I know many of them. Some play at Barcelona, a club I will always love,” he said.

A victory would make Argentina only the third nation to win back-to-back World Cups, after Italy (1934–1938) and Brazil (1958–1962). For Messi, it would be the crowning achievement of a journey built on a year of unseen labour.

“I simply did everything within my power to reach this form, and thanks to God, I succeeded,” he reflected. “I knew I would meet expectations, and I’m happy to savor this moment.”