New York, July 20: Lionel Messi’s international future has become the subject of intense speculation following Argentina’s 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final, with the football legend yet to confirm whether he will continue playing for his country.
The 39-year-old, who became the first men’s footballer to feature in six FIFA World Cups, appeared emotional after the final whistle and was seen holding back tears during the medal presentation, fuelling suggestions that the tournament may have marked his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Although Messi has not announced his retirement from international football, the prospect of featuring in a seventh World Cup in 2030 appears unlikely, as he would be 43 by the time the tournament is held.
Despite falling short of a second World Cup title, Messi’s legacy remains firmly intact. The Argentine captain concluded another remarkable World Cup campaign after scoring 21 career World Cup goals, further cementing his place among the greatest players in the tournament’s history. He also finished among the leading scorers in the 2026 edition despite turning 39 during the competition.Widely regarded as one of football’s all-time greats, Messi’s glittering career includes eight Ballon d’Or titles, 13 league championships, four UEFA Champions League trophies, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and two Copa América crowns.Messi is currently contracted with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami until the end of the 2028 season, leaving open the possibility that he could continue playing at club level even if he decides to step away from international football.Attention has also turned to Argentina’s future, with several key members of the current squad approaching the latter stages of their careers. Of the 17 players who featured in the World Cup final, six were already over the age of 30, while a number of others will cross that milestone before the next Copa América.
While Argentina remain one of world football’s strongest sides, the coming years are expected to usher in a period of transition as the team prepares for life after Messi, whose influence has defined one of the most successful eras in the nation’s football history. (Agencies)
