New United States coach Mauricio Pochettino said he has enough time to prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil, and implementing his philosophy to turn the team into genuine contenders is a challenge he is ready to embrace.

The Argentine manager, who left American-owned Premier League side Chelsea in May after one season, has been tasked with leading the team onto the global stage, with less than two years remaining until the finals, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

The 52-year-old, who formerly managed Paris St Germain and Tottenham Hotspur, said he has arrived at the helm at the right time, and American soccer fans need to believe that his side can emerge as champions despite the challenges they will face in adhering to his methods.

"Everyone thinks that there is no time to prepare and to arrive in our best condition to the World Cup. What I wanted to tell you is that I am on the opposite side. I believe that there is time enough," Pochettino told reporters on Friday. "I don't want to create an excuse for the player to say, 'We don't have time to buy the new idea, the new philosophy'. No, football is like this, it's to touch the right button and start to perform.

"The players are so intelligent and so talented and they can, I think, play in a different way. And for sure, we have time... We need to believe that we can win, that we can win not only a game, we can win the World Cup."

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The U.S. have been without a permanent coach since a humiliating early exit from the Copa America on home soil in July led to the sacking of Gregg Berhalter after his second stint as head coach.

"I don't like to talk about weakness. We are always positive, we have many talented players. Of course the confidence was a little bit low, after the Copa America," he said.

Pochettino said he will be implementing an attacking style of soccer. He echoed AC Milan midfielder Christian Pulisic statements and said he will work with the players to create the mindset needed to compete at the highest level and bring in unity to the squad.

"Most importantly we'll work the psychology that we need to create with the right patterns in performances. We need to recover the confidence and start to perform together, (as a collective)," he added.

"It's important to also create that relationship that the players need to feel that you care. When the players feel that you care, I think you can get the best for them."

He added he was committed to the standards set by four-time world cup winners U.S. women's team and said he will try mirroring their coach Emma Hayes, who guided them to Olympic gold last month.

Pochettino's first game in charge will be a friendly against Panama on Oct. 12 in Austin, Texas.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

New United States coach Mauricio Pochettino said he has enough time to prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil, and implementing his philosophy to turn the team into genuine contenders is a challenge he is ready to embrace.

New United States coach Mauricio Pochettino said he has enough time to prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil, and implementing his philosophy to turn the team into genuine contenders is a challenge he is ready to embrace. The Argentine manager, who left American-owned Premier League side Chelsea in May after one season, has been tasked with leading the team onto the global stage, with less than two years remaining until the finals, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. The 52-year-old, who formerly managed Paris St Germain and Tottenham Hotspur, said he has arrived at the helm at the right time, and American soccer fans need to believe that his side can emerge as champions despite the challenges they will face in adhering to his methods. "Everyone thinks that there is no time to prepare and to arrive in our best condition to the World Cup. What I wanted to tell you is that I am on the opposite side. I believe that there is time enough," Pochettino told reporters on Friday. "I don't want to create an excuse for the player to say, 'We don't have time to buy the new idea, the new philosophy'. No, football is like this, it's to touch the right button and start to perform. "The players are so intelligent and so talented and they can, I think, play in a different way. And for sure, we have time... We need to believe that we can win, that we can win not only a game, we can win the World Cup." ALSO READ: Lionel Messi set for Inter Miami return after two-month injury layoff The U.S. have been without a permanent coach since a humiliating early exit from the Copa America on home soil in July led to the sacking of Gregg Berhalter after his second stint as head coach. "I don't like to talk about weakness. We are always positive, we have many talented players. Of course the confidence was a little bit low, after the Copa America," he said. Pochettino said he will be implementing an attacking style of soccer. He echoed AC Milan midfielder Christian Pulisic statements and said he will work with the players to create the mindset needed to compete at the highest level and bring in unity to the squad. "Most importantly we'll work the psychology that we need to create with the right patterns in performances. We need to recover the confidence and start to perform together, (as a collective)," he added. "It's important to also create that relationship that the players need to feel that you care. When the players feel that you care, I think you can get the best for them." He added he was committed to the standards set by four-time world cup winners U.S. women's team and said he will try mirroring their coach Emma Hayes, who guided them to Olympic gold last month. Pochettino's first game in charge will be a friendly against Panama on Oct. 12 in Austin, Texas. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

USA coach Pochettino vows to transform team for 2026 home World Cup, says he's ready to embrace challenge

Chinese football fans and media rounded on the national team on Friday after they suffered fresh humiliation in a 7-0 thrashing to rivals Japan in World Cup qualifying.

President Xi Jinping once said he wanted China to host and even win the World Cup one day, but that ambition looked further away than ever after a chastening evening in Saitama on Thursday.

China had only squeezed into the decisive third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup thanks to a superior head-to-head record over Thailand. China have reached the World Cup only once before, in 2002.

They are still alive in the group despite the desperate start, but Oriental Sports Daily said it was China's heaviest World Cup qualifying defeat.

"When the taste of bitterness reaches its extreme, all that is left is numbness," it said.

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The Paper in Shanghai said that Chinese football had hit "rock-bottom" and called it a "disastrous defeat".

It partly pointed the finger at China's Croatian boss Branko Ivankovic, calling his "incompetence... a contributing factor to this crushing defeat".

The hammering in Saitama was hotly discussed on Chinese social media platform Weibo, with the hashtag "National team loses to Japan 0-7" viewed 480 million times as of Friday morning.

"We still don't know what the Japanese goalkeeper looks like after a 90-minute game," said one user.

Another went as far as to call for the team to be "disbanded".

"There is no point in spending the most money on this useless project."

Writing on Weibo, former national team player Fan Zhiyi -- who featured at the 2002 World Cup -- said: "When there's a gap in ability and you lose, it's acceptable.

"What's hard for football fans to accept is losing like this."

China will attempt to get their campaign back on track when they host Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chinese football fans and media rounded on the national team on Friday after they suffered fresh humiliation in a 7-0 thrashing to rivals Japan in World Cup qualifying.

Chinese football fans and media rounded on the national team on Friday after they suffered fresh humiliation in a 7-0 thrashing to rivals Japan in World Cup qualifying. President Xi Jinping once said he wanted China to host and even win the World Cup one day, but that ambition looked further away than ever after a chastening evening in Saitama on Thursday. China had only squeezed into the decisive third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup thanks to a superior head-to-head record over Thailand. China have reached the World Cup only once before, in 2002. They are still alive in the group despite the desperate start, but Oriental Sports Daily said it was China's heaviest World Cup qualifying defeat. "When the taste of bitterness reaches its extreme, all that is left is numbness," it said. ALSO READ: Argentina ease past Chile, Bolivia humble Venezuela in World Cup qualifiers The Paper in Shanghai said that Chinese football had hit "rock-bottom" and called it a "disastrous defeat". It partly pointed the finger at China's Croatian boss Branko Ivankovic, calling his "incompetence... a contributing factor to this crushing defeat". The hammering in Saitama was hotly discussed on Chinese social media platform Weibo, with the hashtag "National team loses to Japan 0-7" viewed 480 million times as of Friday morning. "We still don't know what the Japanese goalkeeper looks like after a 90-minute game," said one user. Another went as far as to call for the team to be "disbanded". "There is no point in spending the most money on this useless project." Writing on Weibo, former national team player Fan Zhiyi -- who featured at the 2002 World Cup -- said: "When there's a gap in ability and you lose, it's acceptable. "What's hard for football fans to accept is losing like this." China will attempt to get their campaign back on track when they host Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Chinese football hit ‘rock bottom’ after ‘disastrous’ 0-7 Japan thrashing

Uruguay’s legendary forward Luis Suarez has announced his retirement from international football with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier being his last assignment for the national side. The announcement came on Monday (Sep 2). The striker, who will retire at the age of 37&nbsp;represented Uruguay at four World Cups and helped them reach the semis in 2010 after a controversial handball against Ghana in the quarterfinal.

<h2>Suarez announces international retirement</h2>

"Friday will be my last match for my country," an emotional Suarez, 37, told a press conference.

"It was not an easy decision to make, but I do it with the peace of mind that I will give my maximum until the very last game of my (Uruguay) career," he added.

Having made his debut in 2007, Suarez represented Uruguay in 142 matches and scored 69 goals also being the top scorer for his nation. The upcoming World Cup qualifier will be his 143rd cap for the national side and his last outing in the team’s colours. The former Barcelona man has happy memories with Uruguay having led them to Copa America success in 2011.

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However, Suarez will go down for two most controversial moments in the FIFA World Cup history having denied Ghana a shot at the semis in 2010 and then biting Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini in the 2014 group stage. In the 2010 quarterfinal, Ghana were on the cusp of the World Cup semis when Suarez intentionally denied them a goal with a handball on the line. The resulting penalty was hammered over the crossbar therefore taking the match into a penalty shootout where Uruguay prevailed.

For the Chiellini incident, Suarez was banned for four months from all football-related activities which saw him miss a chunk of first season at Barcelona in 2014.

Suarez’s retirement also drops curtains on an illustrious period for Uruguay with another star forward Edinson Cavani also retiring in June.

Uruguay’s legendary forward Luis Suarez has announced his retirement from international football with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier being his last assignment for the national side.

Uruguay’s legendary forward Luis Suarez has announced his retirement from international football with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier being his last assignment for the national side. The announcement came on Monday (Sep 2). The striker, who will retire at the age of 37 represented Uruguay at four World Cups and helped them reach the semis in 2010 after a controversial handball against Ghana in the quarterfinal. Suarez announces international retirement "Friday will be my last match for my country," an emotional Suarez, 37, told a press conference. "It was not an easy decision to make, but I do it with the peace of mind that I will give my maximum until the very last game of my (Uruguay) career," he added. Having made his debut in 2007, Suarez represented Uruguay in 142 matches and scored 69 goals also being the top scorer for his nation. The upcoming World Cup qualifier will be his 143rd cap for the national side and his last outing in the team’s colours. The former Barcelona man has happy memories with Uruguay having led them to Copa America success in 2011. ALSO READ | PAK vs BAN: 'We've already lost...,' Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie on second Test against Bangladesh However, Suarez will go down for two most controversial moments in the FIFA World Cup history having denied Ghana a shot at the semis in 2010 and then biting Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini in the 2014 group stage. In the 2010 quarterfinal, Ghana were on the cusp of the World Cup semis when Suarez intentionally denied them a goal with a handball on the line. The resulting penalty was hammered over the crossbar therefore taking the match into a penalty shootout where Uruguay prevailed. For the Chiellini incident, Suarez was banned for four months from all football-related activities which saw him miss a chunk of first season at Barcelona in 2014. Suarez’s retirement also drops curtains on an illustrious period for Uruguay with another star forward Edinson Cavani also retiring in June.

Uruguay's Luis Suarez announces international retirement, to bow out against Paraguay in Friday's WC qualifier

England manager Gareth Southgate has enjoyed a mixed reception at the Euro 2024 as the side endured a tough run before making it to the tournament's final. With rumours initially fueled for Southgate possibly getting&nbsp;sacked, reports on Friday (July 12) suggest that the English Football Association (FA) is considering keeping the gaffer until the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. According to reports, even a defeat on Sunday in the Euro 2024 final against Spain won’t change the FA’s stance as they look to have him for another couple of years.

<h2>Gareth Southgate to stay in charge?</h2>

Having enjoyed one of the most successful spells in the history of England, Southgate is now likely to stay in charge of the side until the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

While fans have not been happy with the style of play and have criticised him at times, including the Euro 2024;&nbsp;it has not affected the FA’s stance on him and he will likely sign a contract extension until the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

If he does sign a new deal, it will stretch his stay at the national side to eight years having taken charge of the side in 2016 when Sam Sam Allardyce was sacked after just one game in charge.

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During Southgate’s reign as England manager, the team&nbsp;reached the semifinals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup before reaching the Euro 2020 final where they lost to Italy on penalties. He will now have a golden chance to add his first trophy to the cabinet when England face&nbsp;Spain in the final of the Euro 2024 on Sunday.

If England manage&nbsp;to beat Spain in the final of the Euro 2024, Southgate will become only the second manager in the history of the nation to win a men’s senior trophy. He will join Sir Alf Ramsey who helped England win the 1966 FIFA World Cup.

On the horizon, Southgate became the first England manager to reach two major finals.

England manager Gareth Southgate has enjoyed a mixed reception at the Euro 2024 as the side endured a tough run before making it to the tournament's final. With rumours initially fueled for Southgate possibly getting sacked, reports on Friday (July 12) suggest that the English Football Association (FA) is considering keeping the gaffer until the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

England manager Gareth Southgate has enjoyed a mixed reception at the Euro 2024 as the side endured a tough run before making it to the tournament's final. With rumours initially fueled for Southgate possibly getting sacked, reports on Friday (July 12) suggest that the English Football Association (FA) is considering keeping the gaffer until the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. According to reports, even a defeat on Sunday in the Euro 2024 final against Spain won’t change the FA’s stance as they look to have him for another couple of years. Gareth Southgate to stay in charge? Having enjoyed one of the most successful spells in the history of England, Southgate is now likely to stay in charge of the side until the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While fans have not been happy with the style of play and have criticised him at times, including the Euro 2024; it has not affected the FA’s stance on him and he will likely sign a contract extension until the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If he does sign a new deal, it will stretch his stay at the national side to eight years having taken charge of the side in 2016 when Sam Sam Allardyce was sacked after just one game in charge. ALSO READ | ENG vs WI 2024, Lord's Test: How West Indies missed out on giving James Anderson a guard of honour During Southgate’s reign as England manager, the team reached the semifinals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup before reaching the Euro 2020 final where they lost to Italy on penalties. He will now have a golden chance to add his first trophy to the cabinet when England face Spain in the final of the Euro 2024 on Sunday. If England manage to beat Spain in the final of the Euro 2024, Southgate will become only the second manager in the history of the nation to win a men’s senior trophy. He will join Sir Alf Ramsey who helped England win the 1966 FIFA World Cup. On the horizon, Southgate became the first England manager to reach two major finals.

Euro 2024: Gareth Southgate likely to stay as England manager till 2026 FIFA World Cup – Reports

It was a night to remember for&nbsp;Indian football fans for all the wrong reasons on Tuesday (June 11) evening after their side lost 2-1 to Qatar in the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier. A do-or-die contest for the Blue Tigers was highlighted by a controversial “ghost goal” which ultimately sealed their fate for the 2026 World Cup. The defeat for Igor Stimac’s men saw them finish third in their qualifying group while Kuwait and Qatar advanced to the next round of qualifiers.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Disgusting officiating today as Qatar is awarded a goal that clearly shouldn’t have counted. The goal could’ve costed India 🇮🇳 a third round WC qualification. 
 
This isn’t the first team Qatar has been favoured by the referees. 
 
<a href="https://t.co/R5ckdro0n2">pic.twitter.com/R5ckdro0n2</a>
— Farhad Jamshedpour (@kaai2004) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaai2004/status/1800594373601824824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Qatar score ghost goal</h2>

Needing to win the match to progress to the next round, India were leading 1-0 until the 73rd minute in the backyard of the Asian champions when the controversial moment took place. Yousef Aymen's header in the 73rd minute was saved by goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh denying the Qataris an equaliser. During the play, Gurpreet’s ricochet with the Qatar attacker saw the ball go behind the line for a goal kick. Footage&nbsp;gathered from various angles from several cameras in the stadium saw the ball clearly cross the line for a goal kick.

However, the ball was picked up by Al Hassan and passed to Aymen who scored from a tap-in. India players including the goalkeeper thought a goal kick would be awarded and the goal would be ruled out. The referee instead went to his assistant and after a brief chat awarded the goal to Qatar which proved crucial to their comeback.

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Since there was no Video Assistant Referee (VAR), the on-field referee’s decision stood and the goal was confirmed. Replays and several camera footage would later confirm that the ball had crossed the line and the goal should have been chalked off.

<h2>Consequences of controversial goal</h2>

Before the goal was scored, India were second in the Group A standings and were on the brink of progression to the third round of the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. But a late winning goal for Qatar in the 85th for Qatar and another for Kuwait in their qualifier against Afghanistan sealed India’s fate. Kuwait won 1-0 while India lost 2-1 which meant India finished third and will now have to wait for the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifiers for another shot.

It was a night to remember for Indian football fans for all the wrong reasons on Tuesday (June 11) evening after their side lost 2-1 to Qatar in the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier.

It was a night to remember for Indian football fans for all the wrong reasons on Tuesday (June 11) evening after their side lost 2-1 to Qatar in the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier. A do-or-die contest for the Blue Tigers was highlighted by a controversial “ghost goal” which ultimately sealed their fate for the 2026 World Cup. The defeat for Igor Stimac’s men saw them finish third in their qualifying group while Kuwait and Qatar advanced to the next round of qualifiers. Disgusting officiating today as Qatar is awarded a goal that clearly shouldn’t have counted. The goal could’ve costed India 🇮🇳 a third round WC qualification. This isn’t the first team Qatar has been favoured by the referees. pic.twitter.com/R5ckdro0n2 — Farhad Jamshedpour (@kaai2004) June 11, 2024 × Qatar score ghost goal Needing to win the match to progress to the next round, India were leading 1-0 until the 73rd minute in the backyard of the Asian champions when the controversial moment took place. Yousef Aymen's header in the 73rd minute was saved by goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh denying the Qataris an equaliser. During the play, Gurpreet’s ricochet with the Qatar attacker saw the ball go behind the line for a goal kick. Footage gathered from various angles from several cameras in the stadium saw the ball clearly cross the line for a goal kick. However, the ball was picked up by Al Hassan and passed to Aymen who scored from a tap-in. India players including the goalkeeper thought a goal kick would be awarded and the goal would be ruled out. The referee instead went to his assistant and after a brief chat awarded the goal to Qatar which proved crucial to their comeback. ALSO READ | Why is Erik ten Hag growing 'frustrated' with Manchester United board? Report reveals... Since there was no Video Assistant Referee (VAR), the on-field referee’s decision stood and the goal was confirmed. Replays and several camera footage would later confirm that the ball had crossed the line and the goal should have been chalked off. Consequences of controversial goal Before the goal was scored, India were second in the Group A standings and were on the brink of progression to the third round of the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. But a late winning goal for Qatar in the 85th for Qatar and another for Kuwait in their qualifier against Afghanistan sealed India’s fate. Kuwait won 1-0 while India lost 2-1 which meant India finished third and will now have to wait for the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifiers for another shot.

WATCH: Qatar score controversial 'ghost goal' in FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier to eliminate India

Coach Fernando Diniz will no longer be in charge of the Brazil national team, said the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on Friday.

Diniz, who was appointed on an interim basis, had a one-year contract but led Brazil for six games in the 2026 World Cup qualifying round, with three defeats, one draw and two wins. He combined his work with Fluminense, the club with which he won the Copa Libertadores last year.

"The CBF thanks Fernando Diniz for the work he has done, for all his dedication and seriousness, and for the challenge of renewing the Brazilian national team during his tenure. We wish Fernando Diniz the best of luck," the sports governing body said in a statement.

President Ednaldo Rodrigues spoke to Fluminense president Mario Bittencourt on Thursday about the decision to hire a permanent coach to prepare the team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Sao Paulo coach Dorival Junior is being considered for the job, two sources told Reuters.

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"Diniz's departure is due to the national team's results, which were not as expected," said one of the sources. Brazil is in sixth place in the South American World Cup qualifying standings.

The CBF was looking to Carlo Ancelotti to take over this year, but the Italian preferred to renew his contract with Real Madrid. Now, Rodrigues' favorite to lead the team is Dorival, according to the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

"Ednaldo has already opened talks with the president of Sao Paulo, Julio Casares, to express his interest in Dorival Jr," said the second source. "He explained that he was in a hurry and wanted Dorival soon because of the start of the season. Julio said he was going to talk to Dorival and that the situation would be resolved by Monday."

The decision came a day after Rodrigues returned to the helm of the CBF, thanks to a decision by Minister Gilmar Mendes, of the Federal Supreme Court (STF), after being removed in early December by the Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice.

Coach Fernando Diniz will no longer be in charge of the Brazil national team, said the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on Friday. Diniz, who was appointed on an interim basis, had a one-year contract but led Brazil for six games in the 2026 World Cup qualifying round, with three defeats, one draw and two wins.

Coach Fernando Diniz will no longer be in charge of the Brazil national team, said the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on Friday. Diniz, who was appointed on an interim basis, had a one-year contract but led Brazil for six games in the 2026 World Cup qualifying round, with three defeats, one draw and two wins. He combined his work with Fluminense, the club with which he won the Copa Libertadores last year. "The CBF thanks Fernando Diniz for the work he has done, for all his dedication and seriousness, and for the challenge of renewing the Brazilian national team during his tenure. We wish Fernando Diniz the best of luck," the sports governing body said in a statement. President Ednaldo Rodrigues spoke to Fluminense president Mario Bittencourt on Thursday about the decision to hire a permanent coach to prepare the team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Sao Paulo coach Dorival Junior is being considered for the job, two sources told Reuters. ALSO READ: Tennis: Rafael Nadal's comeback halted in epic encounter against Jordan Thompson in Brisbane "Diniz's departure is due to the national team's results, which were not as expected," said one of the sources. Brazil is in sixth place in the South American World Cup qualifying standings. The CBF was looking to Carlo Ancelotti to take over this year, but the Italian preferred to renew his contract with Real Madrid. Now, Rodrigues' favorite to lead the team is Dorival, according to the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "Ednaldo has already opened talks with the president of Sao Paulo, Julio Casares, to express his interest in Dorival Jr," said the second source. "He explained that he was in a hurry and wanted Dorival soon because of the start of the season. Julio said he was going to talk to Dorival and that the situation would be resolved by Monday." The decision came a day after Rodrigues returned to the helm of the CBF, thanks to a decision by Minister Gilmar Mendes, of the Federal Supreme Court (STF), after being removed in early December by the Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice.

Brazil part ways with coach Fernando Diniz as CBF wants Sao Paulo boss Dorival Junior as replacement

Twelve months on from the historic FIFA World Cup achievement, Argentina skipper Lionel Messi has opened up on the challenge of playing in the 2026 showpiece. Messi, who led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup in 2022 with a dramatic win against then-defending champions France in the final, now intends to keep going until the 2026 tournament. However, his main focus will be to first defend the Copa America title in the USA which Argentina won in 2021 under Messi’s captaincy.

<h2>Messi leaves door open for 2026 World Cup</h2>

"I'm not thinking about the World Cup and I'm not saying 100 per cent that I won't be there because anything can happen. Because of my age, the most normal thing is that I won't be there. Then we'll see," said Messi in an interview with Argentina's Star+.

"Maybe we'll do well at the Copa America and everything will work out for us to continue. Maybe not. Realistically it's difficult," he said of the chance of a sixth consecutive appearance in the World Cup.

"The first to know when I can be there and when I can't. I'm also aware that I've gone to a lesser league. But it's all about the personal side of things and the way you deal with it and how you compete,” the eight-time Ballon d’Or added.

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<h2>Messi’s remarkable year</h2>

Messi has had a remarkable last three years despite being off colour&nbsp;at the club level with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The legendary player secured Argentina’s first Copa America title in 28 years when he led his side to win in 2021, he would then help his side end a drought of 36 years without a World Cup with a win over France in the final in Qatar.

2023 saw him add another feather to his impressive hat with his eighth Ballon d’Or title as he saw off competition from Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. At the club level, he left PSG after two years having won the French Ligue 1, although there was no success in the Champions League for the side as they were eliminated in the Round of 16.

Twelve months on from the historic FIFA World Cup achievement, Argentina skipper Lionel Messi has opened up on the challenge of playing in the 2026 showpiece. Messi, who led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup in 2022 with a dramatic win against then-defending champions France in the final, now intends to keep going until the 2026 tournament.

Twelve months on from the historic FIFA World Cup achievement, Argentina skipper Lionel Messi has opened up on the challenge of playing in the 2026 showpiece. Messi, who led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup in 2022 with a dramatic win against then-defending champions France in the final, now intends to keep going until the 2026 tournament. However, his main focus will be to first defend the Copa America title in the USA which Argentina won in 2021 under Messi’s captaincy. Messi leaves door open for 2026 World Cup "I'm not thinking about the World Cup and I'm not saying 100 per cent that I won't be there because anything can happen. Because of my age, the most normal thing is that I won't be there. Then we'll see," said Messi in an interview with Argentina's Star+. "Maybe we'll do well at the Copa America and everything will work out for us to continue. Maybe not. Realistically it's difficult," he said of the chance of a sixth consecutive appearance in the World Cup. "The first to know when I can be there and when I can't. I'm also aware that I've gone to a lesser league. But it's all about the personal side of things and the way you deal with it and how you compete,” the eight-time Ballon d’Or added. ALSO READ | 'It's insane': Ramiz Raja slams PCB for 'tainted' Salman Butt's appointment Messi’s remarkable year Messi has had a remarkable last three years despite being off colour at the club level with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The legendary player secured Argentina’s first Copa America title in 28 years when he led his side to win in 2021, he would then help his side end a drought of 36 years without a World Cup with a win over France in the final in Qatar. 2023 saw him add another feather to his impressive hat with his eighth Ballon d’Or title as he saw off competition from Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. At the club level, he left PSG after two years having won the French Ligue 1, although there was no success in the Champions League for the side as they were eliminated in the Round of 16.

Lionel Messi leaves door open for 2026 FIFA World Cup; intends to defend Copa America title in 2024

The Indian men's football team has been handed a major boost in their pursuit for a place in the 2026 World Cup qualification after FIFA released the latest rankings on Thursday, June 29. The team coached by Igor Stimac is now ranked 100th in the world while they have also improved significantly in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) rankings which will have a massive impact on India’s place in the draw of the World Cup qualifiers. Led by Sunil Chhetri in the final, India won the Intercontinental Cup earlier in the month having got the better of Lebanon.

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🇮🇳 move up to 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ in the latest FIFA Men’s World Ranking 👏🏽 
 
Steadily we rise 📈💪🏽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/Zul4v3CYdG">pic.twitter.com/Zul4v3CYdG</a>
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<h2>Massive boost for India</h2>

As per the latest standings, India’s win over Lebanon had huge consequences as they now are likely to occupy the second spot in the draws for the second round of FIFA qualifiers. India currently are 18th in the AFC rankings which will see them avoid all the teams from pot two. On the contrary, they will be the second-seeded side in the final groups of qualifiers.

India won five while drawing two matches in June which included the Intercontinental Cup and the SAFF Championships. India could also better their rankings before the draw takes place later in July if they win the SAFF Championships.

<h2>Why is it a boost for India in qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?</h2>

As things stand, the second round of qualification will see nine groups of four teams each with the top two teams making the third round. Since India will avoid all the pot number two teams and will have only one pot one team in their group, they will get a significantly favoured group in the second round. India will be expected to finish as group runners-up at minimum.

If this is the case, India will qualify for round three, which will see them get a step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While it will be a tall order, a top-two finish in the third round will see India qualify for the World Cup. While they could also make the playoffs in case they fail to seal direct qualification.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-and-france-teammates-raise-concern-after-police-kills-teenager-during-traffic-check-610052">Kylian Mbappe and France teammates raise concern after police kills teenager during traffic check</a>

<h2>Numbers game</h2>

The Blue Tigers gained 4.24 ranking points after five wins and two draws in June which has seen them boost their qualification campaign. India are currently 3.16 points in advantage of Lebanon after India beat them in the Intercontinental Cup final. The result had huge consequences on both India’s FIFA as well as AFC Rankings.

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The Indian men's football team has been handed a major boost in their pursuit for a place in the 2026 World Cup qualification after FIFA released the latest rankings on Thursday, June 29.

The Indian men's football team has been handed a major boost in their pursuit for a place in the 2026 World Cup qualification after FIFA released the latest rankings on Thursday, June 29. The team coached by Igor Stimac is now ranked 100th in the world while they have also improved significantly in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) rankings which will have a massive impact on India’s place in the draw of the World Cup qualifiers. Led by Sunil Chhetri in the final, India won the Intercontinental Cup earlier in the month having got the better of Lebanon. 🇮🇳 move up to 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ in the latest FIFA Men’s World Ranking 👏🏽 Steadily we rise 📈💪🏽#IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/Zul4v3CYdG — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) June 29, 2023 × Massive boost for India As per the latest standings, India’s win over Lebanon had huge consequences as they now are likely to occupy the second spot in the draws for the second round of FIFA qualifiers. India currently are 18th in the AFC rankings which will see them avoid all the teams from pot two. On the contrary, they will be the second-seeded side in the final groups of qualifiers. India won five while drawing two matches in June which included the Intercontinental Cup and the SAFF Championships. India could also better their rankings before the draw takes place later in July if they win the SAFF Championships. Why is it a boost for India in qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup? As things stand, the second round of qualification will see nine groups of four teams each with the top two teams making the third round. Since India will avoid all the pot number two teams and will have only one pot one team in their group, they will get a significantly favoured group in the second round. India will be expected to finish as group runners-up at minimum. If this is the case, India will qualify for round three, which will see them get a step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While it will be a tall order, a top-two finish in the third round will see India qualify for the World Cup. While they could also make the playoffs in case they fail to seal direct qualification. ALSO READ | Kylian Mbappe and France teammates raise concern after police kills teenager during traffic check Numbers game The Blue Tigers gained 4.24 ranking points after five wins and two draws in June which has seen them boost their qualification campaign. India are currently 3.16 points in advantage of Lebanon after India beat them in the Intercontinental Cup final. The result had huge consequences on both India’s FIFA as well as AFC Rankings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FIFA Rankings: India gain massive boost in 2026 WC qualification campaign, enter top 100 after stellar June

FIFA's compensation paid to clubs that release players for the men's World Cup has been increased by nearly 70% to $355 million for the 2026 and 2030 tournaments, the global soccer governing body and the European Club Association (ECA) said on Monday. The Club Benefits Programme affords clubs a share of national team competition revenues in return for releasing players and also protects clubs in case their players are injured on international duty.

The previous amount earmarked for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups was $209 million. A renewed Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Monday at the ECA General Assembly in Budapest, Hungary.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-ire-2023-bangladesh-continue-dream-run-at-home-beat-ireland-by-22-runs-in-rain-hit-1st-t20i-576337">BAN vs IRE 2023: Bangladesh continue dream run at home, beat Ireland by 22 runs in rain-hit 1st T20I</a>

"We are delighted to have signed this landmark agreement," ECA Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi said. "The MoU recognises the central role of clubs in football globally and ensures that they are properly represented in decision making around issues which affect them."

Earlier this month, FIFA had announced a 32-team Club World Cup will be played every four years from June 2025, replacing its annual competition which featured seven teams.

The decision was met with opposition from leagues such as Spain's LaLiga but the MoU will now have both FIFA and the ECA working together on its various sporting and commercial aspects for the 2025 edition.

"FIFA and ECA will also now establish closer working practices on a future new Club World Cup... and working together on future editions including on potential structures for managing the commercial rights going forward."

FIFA also announced a newly structured international calendar which its president Gianni Infantino said had been endorsed by the ECA.

"To have the new International Match Calendar endorsed by ECA provides the necessary balance between club and national team football," Infantino said. "We have exciting projects ahead, including the new FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 and the new FIFA women's Club World Cup. A close collaboration with clubs in Europe, and the rest of the world, will be essential for the success of those events."

FIFA's compensation paid to clubs that release players for the men's World Cup has been increased by nearly 70% to $355 million for the 2026 and 2030 tournaments, the global soccer governing body and the European Club Association (ECA) said on Monday.

FIFA's compensation paid to clubs that release players for the men's World Cup has been increased by nearly 70% to $355 million for the 2026 and 2030 tournaments, the global soccer governing body and the European Club Association (ECA) said on Monday. The Club Benefits Programme affords clubs a share of national team competition revenues in return for releasing players and also protects clubs in case their players are injured on international duty. The previous amount earmarked for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups was $209 million. A renewed Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Monday at the ECA General Assembly in Budapest, Hungary. ALSO READ: BAN vs IRE 2023: Bangladesh continue dream run at home, beat Ireland by 22 runs in rain-hit 1st T20I "We are delighted to have signed this landmark agreement," ECA Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi said. "The MoU recognises the central role of clubs in football globally and ensures that they are properly represented in decision making around issues which affect them." Earlier this month, FIFA had announced a 32-team Club World Cup will be played every four years from June 2025, replacing its annual competition which featured seven teams. The decision was met with opposition from leagues such as Spain's LaLiga but the MoU will now have both FIFA and the ECA working together on its various sporting and commercial aspects for the 2025 edition. "FIFA and ECA will also now establish closer working practices on a future new Club World Cup... and working together on future editions including on potential structures for managing the commercial rights going forward." FIFA also announced a newly structured international calendar which its president Gianni Infantino said had been endorsed by the ECA. "To have the new International Match Calendar endorsed by ECA provides the necessary balance between club and national team football," Infantino said. "We have exciting projects ahead, including the new FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 and the new FIFA women's Club World Cup. A close collaboration with clubs in Europe, and the rest of the world, will be essential for the success of those events."

FIFA to pay clubs whopping $355 million for sending players to 2026, 2030 World Cups