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Few athletes have captivated soccer fans quite like Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar has spent more than two decades dazzling audiences around the world, establishing himself as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has enjoyed remarkable success at both club and international level, winning league titles, UEFA Champions League trophies, Copa America crowns and the FIFA World Cup.
As Messi prepares for another World Cup campaign with Argentina, The Sporting News takes a look at the club and country he represents heading into the 2026 tournament.
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Who does Lionel Messi play for in the World Cup?
Messi represents Argentina at the World Cup, wearing the iconic No. 10 shirt once made famous by Diego Maradona.
The superstar forward has been a fixture of the national team setup since making his senior debut as a teenager in 2005. Since then, he has become Argentina's all-time leading appearance-maker and goalscorer, recording 199 caps and 117 goals for La Albiceleste while helping the nation win the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles and the 2022 Finalissima.
As captain, Messi remains the focal point of Argentina's attack and one of the most influential players in international soccer as the reigning world champions look to defend their crown at the 2026 World Cup.
Has Lionel Messi ever won a World Cup?
Yes. Messi won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022, helping his country defeat France in one of the most dramatic finals in tournament history.
The Argentine captain played a leading role throughout the competition, scoring seven goals and providing three assists as La Albiceleste lifted the trophy for the third time. Messi was also awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.
What club team does Lionel Messi play for?
Messi plays for MLS side Inter Miami, having joined the club in July 2023 following the expiration of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain.
The Argentine superstar spent the majority of his professional career with Barcelona, where he won 10 La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League trophies and established himself as one of the greatest players in soccer history. Following his departure from the Spanish giants in 2021, Messi spent two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain before making the move to the United States.
Messi has won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards during his career, the most of any player in the history of the honor. Since arriving at Inter Miami, he has helped raise the profile of both the club and Major League Soccer while continuing to add to one of the most decorated careers in soccer history.
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