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'It's in his DNA' - Lionel Messi's Argentina team-mate makes hopeful 2026 World Cup claim as Inter Miami star continues to shine on global stage

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<p>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.</p>

WHAT HAPPENED?

<p>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."</p>

WHAT OTAMENDI SAID

<p><a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/messi-completed-football-winners-losers-2022-world-cup-mbappe-runs-riot-ronaldo-ruins-reputation/blt27b495756fd7733b" target="_blank">Messi was said to have completed football when inspiring Argentina's World Cup victory in 2022</a>, 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. </p>

THE BIGGER PICTURE

<p>Argentina are 10 points clear of second-place Ecuador in the CONMEBOL qualification standings and <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/argentina-defend-title-champions-book-spot-2026-world-cup-bolivia-uruguay-superclasico-brazil/blt16640972305dd323" target="_blank">have booked their place at the tournament</a>. They finish their campaign with games against Venezuela and Ecuador in September. </p>

WHAT NEXT FOR ARGENTINA?

'It's in his DNA' - Lionel Messi's Argentina team-mate makes hopeful 2026 World Cup claim as Inter Miami star continues to shine on global stage | Goal.com

Lionel Messi&apos;s international team-mate insists competing is in the star&apos;s DNA and hopes he will play at the 2026 World Cup.

&apos;It&apos;s in his DNA&apos; - Lionel Messi&apos;s Argentina team-mate makes hopeful 2026 World Cup claim as Inter Miami star continues to shine on global stage

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