In a revelation that has stunned the footballing globe, the legendary Lionel Messi has openly contemplated retirement from international football following this summer's Copa América in the United States.
The Inter Miami maestro, fresh from captaining Argentina to a monumental victory in the 2022 World Cup, dropped the bombshell hint in a candid interview with ESPN. The 36-year-old icon suggested that his time representing the iconic Albiceleste shirt may be drawing to a dramatic close.
The Final Curtain Call?
'The truth is, it's highly likely this will be my last Copa América,' Messi stated, sending a wave of disbelief through his millions of admirers. His words paint the upcoming tournament as a potential farewell tour for one of the greatest international careers the sport has ever witnessed.
Messi's contemplation is rooted in a powerful sense of completion. 'We've achieved everything we set out to with the national team,' he reflected, alluding to the historic World Cup triumph in Qatar that finally cemented his legacy alongside the great Diego Maradona.
World Cup 2026 Hopes Fade
Perhaps the most significant implication of his comments is the heavy doubt cast over his participation in the next World Cup. Set to be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada in 2026, many had hoped to see Messi grace the global stage one final time.
However, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was pragmatic about his future, acknowledging the relentless march of time. 'I'm going to be 37 years old... I prefer to take it game by game, to be here and now,' he explained, indicating that a decision on his long-term future will be made after the Copa América concludes.
A Nation Holds Its Breath
This news places immense pressure on Argentina's campaign. The prospect of it being Messi's last hurrah will undoubtedly fuel his teammates' desire to send their captain out on the ultimate high. Manager Lionel Scaloni now faces the task of navigating a tournament charged with immense emotional weight.
For fans worldwide, the 2024 Copa América has been instantly transformed from a major tournament into a must-watch event, a potential final chapter in the international story of a true footballing deity.
