Copyright timesnownews
It seems that Lionel Messi is just as excited to represent his nation on the global stage for the sixth time, just as he was back in Germany 2006, walking on the field as a mighty 18-year-old. Almost two decades later, his status as a player might have changed, but not his zeal to give it all for Argentina. Scoring the first goal at 18 years and 358 days of age for his country in his World Cup debut was the first glimpse into what Messi was in the process of becoming. However, eight Ballon d'Ors and a World Cup win later, he still wants to keep going. In an exclusive interview with Tom Llamas of NBC News, the 38-year-old revealed that he wants to play for his nation, given that his health and physical fitness are at 100%. “I would like to be there," said Messi, but further added, "To be well and be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there. And I’m going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year with Inter [Miami] and see if I can really be 100%, if I can be useful to the group, to the national team, and then make a decision. Obviously, I’m really eager because it’s a World Cup." The Argentine further explained how it is a different kind of feeling for him, as well as the team, to be coming into the tournament as defending champions. He highlighted that the hunger for trying to win the title for the second time is something that is pushing him more. “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,” said Leo. In the last edition of the World Cup in 2022, Argentina defeated France 4-2 on penalties to win the final with the GOAT, Messi, fulfilling his lifelong dream. He won his second Golden Ball and was also voted as the best player of the tournament.
