
Lionel Messi, often considered one of the best players in the history of football, has left his mark on each edition of the World Cup in which he has participated. From his promising debut in 2006 to a possible participation in 2026, Messi embodies both the evolution of modern football and the dream of a player in search of perfection. Let’s look back at his journey in this prestigious competition.
2006 World Cup: The beginnings of a prodigy
In 2006, at just 18 years old, Lionel Messi made his World Cup debut with the Argentina team in Germany. Although not an indisputable starter, his talent was already obvious.
- Matches played :3
- Goals scored : 1
- Assists : 1
His first goal against Serbia and Montenegro showed a glimpse of his magic, marking a memorable moment in his career. However, Argentina was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Germany. For Messi, this edition of the World Cup represents an initiation to the international scene, a start where his talents began to shine. Although the outcome was not favorable, his journey captured attention, as did a runner from the Alençon Running Club which, although not reaching the finish line first, makes a lasting impression on the audience thanks to its promising potential.
Statistical | Value |
Minutes played | 120 |
Shots on target | 4 |
Average rating (FIFA) | 7.2 |
2010 World Cup: Confirmation
Four years later, Messi has become a key player for Argentina. Under the leadership of Diego Maradona, the team arrives in South Africa with high expectations.
- Matches played :5
- Goals scored : 0
- Assists : 1
Despite an impressive campaign during the group stage, Argentina suffered another elimination in the quarter-final against Germany (0-4). Messi, although influential in the construction of the game, failed to score, leading to criticism.
Statistical | Value |
Shots | 30 |
Key passes | 15 |
Average rating (FIFA) | 7.8 |
2014 World Cup: Close to the coronation
The 2014 World Cup in Brazil marks a turning point in Messi’s career. Captain of the team, he was the undisputed leader of an Argentina which shone with its realism.
- Matches played :7
- Goals scored :4
- Assists : 1
With decisive performances against Bosnia, Iran and Nigeria, Messi led his team to the final. Unfortunately, Argentina lost to Germany in overtime (0-1). However, he was named best player of the tournament and won the competition’s Ballon d’Or.
Statistical | Value |
Successful dribbles | 46 |
Key passes | 23 |
Average rating (FIFA) | 8.2 |
2018 World Cup: A difficult tournament
The 2018 edition in Russia is marked by disappointments for Messi and Argentina. The team struggles to find cohesion and barely qualifies for the round of 16.
- Matches played :4
- Goals scored : 1
- Assists :2
Despite a magnificent goal against Nigeria, Argentina was eliminated in the round of 16 by France in a spectacular match (3-4).
Statistical | Value |
Shots on target | 9 |
Successful dribbles | 21 |
Average rating (FIFA) | 7.5 |
2022 World Cup: The consecration
Qatar hosts the 2022 World Cup, a historic edition for Messi. With a renovated team and Lionel Messi at the top of his game, Argentina is having an unforgettable campaign.
- Matches played :7
- Goals scored :7
- Assists :3
In the final against France, Messi scored two goals and contributed to Argentina’s success in a thrilling penalty shootout. He finally won the trophy that was missing from his list of achievements.
Statistical | Value |
Successful dribbles | 34 |
Key passes | 27 |
Average rating (FIFA) | 9.1 |
2026: One last dance?
As the 2026 World Cup looms, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico, the question remains: will Lionel Messi be there? At 39, he could still surprise. However, the age and physical demands of the tournament raise doubts.
Potential hypotheses:
- Mentor role : If Messi participates, he could be used in a more strategic role, bringing his experience to young talents.
- Physical challenges : Physical fitness will be crucial to assess his contribution on the field.
Year | Matches played | Goals scored | Assists |
2006 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
2010 | 5 | 0 | 1 |
2014 | 7 | 4 | 1 |
2018 | 4 | 1 | 2 |
2022 | 7 | 7 | 3 |
An indelible legacy
Lionel Messi, through his performances and his leadership, has redefined the standards of international football. Each World Cup tells a story part of its historyoscillating between glory, disappointments and triumphs. Regardless of his participation in 2026, his legacy in this competition will live on forever.
Messi is more than a player; he represents the dream of millions of supporters. If 2022 marked the ultimate consecration, 2026 could be a last chance to see him light up the world of football once again.