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After an illustrious career, this summer's World Cup in North America might be the last time we see the iconic Lionel Messi play for his native Argentina. Messi has never definitively said anything about his international playing future, but the writing is on the wall as the reigning men's World Cup winners try to become only the third country ever to repeat as champions.
The reason is simple. A 38-year-old Messi has nothing left to accomplish at the international level.
Not only has he led Argentina to two Copa America titles (2021, 2024), but he has also finally brought his country a World Cup after an epic run in 2022. For all intents and purposes, Messi is no longer chasing any legacies, like that of fellow Argentinian legend Diego Maradona. His place in Argentinian soccer history is secure as the greatest and arguably the most beloved athlete the country has ever had. Never mind that Messi will be 40 by the time of the next Copa America tournament in 2028 and 42 by the time of the next World Cup in 2030, which, for lack of a better term, are "ancient" ages at this level of soccer.
For Messi, playing in this World Cup is likely something of a curtain call. It is his chance to say goodbye to playing for his country on his terms before he deservedly rides off into the sunset. The beauty of it is that no matter how Argentina ultimately fares in the tournament, Messi will have had no painful regrets. He can walk away with his head held high, knowing someone of his all-time talent delivered for the people he loves the most.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Is Lionel Messi playing his last World Cup in 2026? Here's the answer
Continue reading...
The reason is simple. A 38-year-old Messi has nothing left to accomplish at the international level.
Not only has he led Argentina to two Copa America titles (2021, 2024), but he has also finally brought his country a World Cup after an epic run in 2022. For all intents and purposes, Messi is no longer chasing any legacies, like that of fellow Argentinian legend Diego Maradona. His place in Argentinian soccer history is secure as the greatest and arguably the most beloved athlete the country has ever had. Never mind that Messi will be 40 by the time of the next Copa America tournament in 2028 and 42 by the time of the next World Cup in 2030, which, for lack of a better term, are "ancient" ages at this level of soccer.
For Messi, playing in this World Cup is likely something of a curtain call. It is his chance to say goodbye to playing for his country on his terms before he deservedly rides off into the sunset. The beauty of it is that no matter how Argentina ultimately fares in the tournament, Messi will have had no painful regrets. He can walk away with his head held high, knowing someone of his all-time talent delivered for the people he loves the most.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Is Lionel Messi playing his last World Cup in 2026? Here's the answer
Continue reading...
