Lionel Messi Bids Emotional Farewell in Argentina, Uncertain About 2026 FIFA World Cup
Buenos Aires, Sep 5 (TheTrendingPeople.com): Football icon Lionel Messi marked what he confirmed as his final competitive appearance in Argentina by scoring twice in a 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental. The match was an emotional occasion for the Albiceleste captain, who admitted he does not expect to play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A Dream Farewell in Buenos Aires
Messi, visibly moved after the final whistle, reflected on his journey in front of home fans.
"We’ll see. There are so many emotions, I've experienced so many things on this field. It's always a joy to play in Argentina with our people. Being able to finish in this way here is what I always dreamed of," Messi said.
The 37-year-old star expressed gratitude for the support he has received from Argentine fans, acknowledging that for years he longed to feel the same affection at home that he enjoyed at Barcelona.
"For many years, a lot of things were said, but I’ll stay with all the good, with this group that tried, and later achieved it. Everything we lived was beautiful. Today was the last one for points here," he added.
Messi’s Glittering International Career
- Caps: 193
- Goals: 112
Major Trophies with Argentina:
- FIFA World Cup (2022)
- Copa America (2021, 2024)
Messi has been Argentina’s talisman for nearly two decades, guiding the team through heartbreaks and triumphs. His crowning moment came in Qatar 2022, where he lifted the World Cup, cementing his place as one of football’s greatest ever.
Doubts Over 2026 World Cup
Though still performing at a high level with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi admitted his age makes another World Cup appearance unlikely.
"Same as I said before about the World Cup — I don’t think I’ll play another. Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But well, we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, going by how I feel," Messi explained.
He emphasized honesty with himself as the guiding principle for his decision-making:
"When I feel good, I enjoy it. But when I don’t, I don’t have a good time. I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good. I’ll finish this MLS season, then have preseason, and there will be six months left. Hopefully, I’ll feel good, and then I’ll decide."
Why It Matters
Messi’s comments underline the uncertainty surrounding one of football’s most celebrated careers. If he decides against playing in the 2026 World Cup, it would mean Argentina will defend their crown without their inspirational captain.
For Argentine fans, his farewell at the Monumental was a symbolic passing of the torch, even as Messi remains central to the team’s immediate plans in World Cup qualifying.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Lionel Messi’s final competitive match in Argentina was not just another qualifier — it was a historic farewell to home fans from a player who has defined a generation of football. His brace against Venezuela was a fitting reminder of his enduring brilliance.
While his World Cup future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Messi’s legacy as Argentina’s greatest-ever player is secure. Whether or not he takes the field in 2026, his influence on the game will continue to inspire millions around the world.