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Messi Leaves Fans Wondering About His Final Chapter
Lionel Messi’s Emotional Farewell on Argentine Soil
Lionel Messi, the captain and emblem of Argentina’s soccer golden generation, played what he confirmed as his last official game on Argentine soil for the World Cup qualifiers. The setting was perfect: a 3-0 win over Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium, where Messi scored two incredible goals and left the field visibly emotional. It was not only a victory for Argentina but also a farewell that carried deep significance.
“There were so many emotions, I knew it was the last one here for points. It’s the best to be able to finish this way here. For many years I had the love in Barcelona, and my dream was to have it here in the country, with my people,” Messi reflected after the game.
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“The most thrilling part was going out with my kids and the anthem, which I always experience in a special way. Once the game started, all of that was over. It was a beautiful, special day. There were very intense days. I didn’t stop. Many friends came. I didn’t have time to think about it. I could only enjoy the moments and be with a big part of my family,” he added.
Is This the Beginning of Messi’s Goodbye?
The 38-year-old World Cup champion from Qatar 2022 acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future with the national team. “The moment is approaching, it will happen when it has to happen, as I’ve been saying, step by step. I hope to finish the year well to have a good preseason,” he explained, highlighting his desire to focus on the present while keeping the door open for what’s to come.
On the question of whether he will make it to the 2026 World Cup in North America, Messi admitted: “Like I said before, I don’t think I’ll play in another World Cup. Given my age, it’s more logical that I won’t make it, but here we are, I’m excited and motivated. Like I mentioned before, I’m taking it day by day, game by game.“
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Messi highlighted the importance of listening to his body and feelings before making a decision: “This year there have been many games, a lot in a row, one after another. I had a few days off, and when I came back, I felt it again, but now I’ve managed to play three straight games. It’s a day-by-day thing, feeling things out. And above all, being honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it, and if I’m not feeling right, I have a hard time and prefer not to be there.”
The forward made it clear that his future with the team will depend on how he feels both physically and mentally: “It’s not something I like, want, or am looking forward to, but time keeps passing, and it’s been many years now. Sometimes I feel good, sometimes not so much, and it really depends on that.”
For now, Messi has decided against traveling to Ecuador for the last qualifying game on September 9. Instead, he will head back to Florida to focus on helping Inter Miami fight for the MLS playoffs. “I spoke with Scaloni, and he decided I should rest. As I mentioned earlier, I’m recovered from my injury, but we prefer to avoid the traveling and rest up properly for what’s coming at Inter Miami. It’s a crucial stretch, as we’re aiming to win the MLS. In October, we’ll meet again for some friendlies.”
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Messi’s record with Argentina is unmatched: 194 games, 114 goals, and 59 assists, making him the national team’s all-time top scorer and a living legend.
Looking ahead, Argentina’s schedule includes friendlies in October and November 2025, a Finalissima against Spain in March 2026, and pre-World Cup friendlies in June 2026. The expanded World Cup will kick off on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City and conclude on July 19 in New York.
Messi summarized his approach to the future: “It’s game by game. I mentioned before Qatar that it was difficult for me to make it because of my age. I have to see how I feel, I want to have a good preseason. I’m excited and up for it, but I haven’t made a decision yet.”
For Argentina and the world, the anticipation continues. Messi’s final act with the national team isn’t choreographed yet, but his brilliance, honesty, and humanity ensure that every move he makes will be unforgettable.
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