Argentina's Messi prioritizes Copa America repeat but leaves World Cup future open. He's enjoying his best with Argentina, he says, even at 36.

Messi Savoring Now, Open to Future: Copa America First, World Cup "Anything Can Happen"

Lionel Messi, Argentina's captain and talisman, isn't dwelling on his international future past next year's Copa America. His immediate focus: leading Argentina to a second consecutive continental title in the US.

Despite saying earlier this year that the 2022 World Cup would likely be his last, the 36-year-old isn't ruling out 2026. He's enjoying his best time with Argentina, even acknowledging the ticking clock.

"I'm not thinking about the World Cup," Messi clarifies in an interview with Star+. "Anything can happen. My age makes it less likely, but we'll see."

The recent Ballon d'Or winner acknowledges the "realistic difficulty" of six consecutive World Cup appearances, but adds, "Maybe the Copa will change things. Time will tell."

Playing in MLS with Inter Miami hasn't dampened his international fire. "I'll be the first to know when I can contribute," he says. "As long as I feel well, I'm in. Today, it's the Copa. After that, we'll see."

He's motivated by the present: "This is special. I don't want to overthink. Football moves fast."

Messi remembers the bittersweet 2016 Copa on US soil, where Argentina fell to Chile on penalties in the final. It was their third consecutive final loss with him as captain.

Since then, they've lifted the Copa in 2021, the Finalissima in 2022, and the World Cup last year. "Being champion brings peace," Messi reflects.

The Copa America will welcome six CONCACAF teams, including the US and Mexico. Argentina's opponents will be revealed on December 7th.