Strict "double shifts" in training: Messi's teammate reveals legend's fitness regime for FIFA WC
Buenos Aires, May 18
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami and Argentina teammate Rodrigo de Paul has revealed the legendary footballer's training regime leading up to the FIFA World Cup 2026, where the maestro would be aiming to defend the most prestigious title in football.
Despite having achieved it all at club and international level in terms of individual and team honours', Messi's work behind the scenes has increased more than ever, with the 38-year-old eyeing his second FIFA World Cup.
As per De Paul, Messi, who also captains Inter Miami, has a double training session as a part of his daily routine, which is beyond his standard commitments with the club.
Speaking to Lo del Pollo as quoted by Goal.com, De Paul revealed that this training plan has been in place since a long while, saying, "Between two and three months ago, we had a training plan beyond what we do at the club and the two of us kill ourselves to reach the best physical shape. We proposed a double shift for ourselves and we have our trainer there and we give it our all."
No wonder why Messi is still at his absolute majestic in his late 30s. In the Major League Soccer season 2026 so far, Messi has been magical for his club, having scored 12 goals in 12 matches and delivering six assists so far.
Messi has his World Cup preparations in full swing as he contributed with a goal and an assist to help Inter Miami secure a 2-0 win over Portland Timbers in their Major League Soccer (MLS) match on Monday morning.
Inter Miami stays at the second spot in the competition with their eighth win, having drawn four and losing three, giving them 28 points. They are just two points away from table-toppers Nashville.
— ANI
Reader Comments
De Paul and Messi training together like true friends. But honestly, MLS defending is weak - those stats are inflated. Let's see him do this in the Champions League or Premier League. Still, respect for the work ethic. Bhai ne apne aap ko proof kar diya hai.
Amazing discipline from the little magician! 🐐 I remember watching him in 2014 WC final and thinking he deserved it. Now he has the World Cup and wants another. Our Indian footballers should take notes from this kind of dedication.
It's great to see Messi's commitment at this stage of his career, but I wonder about the toll on his body. Double shifts daily in your late 30s could risk injury. Argentina might be overworking their best player. Hope they manage his minutes wisely in MLS too.
Messi's still magic at 38 - 12 goals in 12 matches! 🎯 Our cricket team could learn from this work ethic. But honestly, the article says Inter Miami is 2nd in the table behind Nashville? MLS seems like a farmers league if you ask me. Still, GOAT behaviour from Messi.
It's incredible that Messi is still pushing himself like this after winning everything. That double shift routine is next level. But let's be real - 2026 WC is 18 months away, and a lot can change. Father time is undefeated. Hope he can stay fit for one more World Cup run.
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