Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi has hinted at a possible retirement from international duty after stating that the last few games could be his last in an Argentina shirt.
Messi, who revealed that he has not set any deadline for his future, made his second appearance for Argentina since returning from an injury that he sustained during the Copa America Final earlier this year.
The 37-year-old scored a hat trick and provided two assists for the Albiceleste in their 6-0 rout of Bolivia in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers at the Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires.
The Inter Miami man, netted his 10th hat-trick in to equal long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of most hat-tricks in international football.
When asked about a possible appearance at the 2026 World Cup slated to be held in Canada, Mexico and the United States, Messi said he wants to enjoy his last days in football.
“I didn’t set any date or deadline about my future,” the World Cup winner stated. “I’m just enjoying all this. I am more emotional than ever and taking all the love from the people because I know these can be my last games.”
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain talisman admitted that witnessing the home fans chanting his name throughout the game was emotional for him.
“It is very nice to play here feeling the affection of the Argentina fans,” Messi said after the game. “It makes me emotional to listen how they shout my name. We all enjoy this connection with the fans and we love playing at home.”
Messi further noted that having younger player around, makes him feel more comfortable trying different moves and tricks in the final third.
“It’s a joy to be present and appreciate this moment,” he said. “Being surrounded by younger teammates, given my age, makes me feel like a kid again. I find myself doing silly things because I feel so comfortable. As long as I maintain that feeling and can continue contributing to the team, I plan to be here enjoying [the Argentina national team].”
Goals from Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, and Botafogo midfielder Thiago Almada sealed all three points for the reigning World champions, who consolidated their lead at the top of the standings in the qualification rounds.
