Messi not planning to play at 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi said he "doesn't think" he will play at another World Cup in an interview with Chinese media on Tuesday.

The 35-year-old led Argentina to victory at last year's tournament in Qatar, and immediately after that triumph refused to rule out playing in the 2026 finals in North America.

However, when asked by China's Titan Sports in a video interview if he might feature at the 2026 tournament, Messi replied: "I have said several times before that I don't think so, that (2022) was my last World Cup.

"I will see how things go, but in theory I don't think I will be around for the next World Cup," he added in Spanish.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner is currently in Beijing where Argentina will play a friendly against Australia on Thursday.

Earlier this year, Messi said it would be "very difficult" for him to play at another World Cup. He will turn 39 during the 2026 edition.

Argentina will play Thursday's friendly against Australia at the 68,000-capacity Workers' Stadium in Beijing. The match is a repeat of the last-16 tie between the teams at the World Cup in Doha, which Argentina won 2-1.

Garnacho debut

Meanwhile, Manchester United striker Alejandro Garnacho is looking forward to his debut with Argentina, saying his decision to represent the South American country is final.

Born in Spain to an Argentine mother, the 18-year-old told TyC Sports on Monday: "I feel Argentinian, I am Argentinian. They bet on me and it was clear to me. It's a very big national team, a very good opportunity and my whole family is very happy."