Lionel Messi remains determined to help Argentina defend the World Cup next year, but his participation will depend on whether he can be 100% fit.

Messi recently ended speculation that he could call time on his spectacular career by signing a new contract with Inter Miami, to run until 2028.

That means he will be midway through another MLS campaign by the time next year's tournament – in the United States, Canada and Mexico – begins on June 11.

Messi finally got his hands on international football's biggest prize in Qatar in 2022, recording seven goals and three assists in one of the greatest individual World Cup campaigns.

He became only the sixth player, since assists can be tracked from 1966 onwards, to score or assist at least half of their team's goals in a triumphant World Cup run, after Pele (10 of Brazil's 19) in 1970, Paolo Rossi (seven of Italy's 12) in 1982, Maradona (10 of Argentina's 14) in 1986, Romario (six of Brazil's 11) in 1994 and David Villa (six of Spain's eight) in 2010.

Messi also holds the records for total goal involvements and games played at World Cups, recording 21 goal contributions in 26 appearances, while he is only three shy of Miroslav Klose's all-time record of 16 goals at the finals. 

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will turn 39 years old during the 2026 tournament, but – fitness permitting – he intends to be there.

"Well, the truth is that yes, it's something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup," Messi told NBC News. 

"I would like to be there, to feel well and to be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there.

"I am going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year with Inter and see if I can really be 100%. I'm really eager because it's the World Cup. 

"We're coming off winning the last World Cup, and being able to defend it on the field again is spectacular because it's always a dream to play with the national team, especially in official competitions, so hopefully God will allow me to do it once again."

Reflecting on his decision to agree fresh terms with Miami, Messi added: "I've always said that I'll base my decision on how I feel day-to-day and how I feel physically and mentally to continue playing and to continue being part of this club.

"Honestly, I felt really good during the year. I'm happy living in Miami, as is my family, and honestly, the decision was easy."

Messi is currently participating in the MLS Cup Playoffs with Miami, who won their opening game of a three-match first-round series against Nashville SC on Friday, 3-1.