Lionel Messi returns to international duty with Argentina as South America’s long qualifying journey to the 2026 World Cup begins.
Messi led Argentina to a World Cup victory in Qatar, solidifying his status as his generation’s greatest player.
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Since then, the 36-year-old superstar’s life has experienced significant changes including a dazzling start to his Major League Soccer career
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain amid controversy, Messi considered Saudi Arabia but ultimately opted for a fresh start with Inter Miami.
This move has proven to be a wise decision, with Messi and his family seamlessly adapting to life in Florida.
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He led Inter to their first silverware and into the US Open Cup final.
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Former Argentina and Barcelona player, Inter coach Gerard “Tata” Martino, asserts that Messi found liberation after guiding Argentina to last year’s World Cup victory, following multiple near-misses.
However, as South America’s qualifying campaign begins this week, the question looms:
Will Messi still be part of Argentina’s squad when they aim to defend their title in the 2026 World Cup?
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In June, Messi seemed to dismiss this possibility, suggesting that he didn’t expect to play in the 2026 finals.
Nevertheless, in a July interview, he admitted to having no clear idea of when he plans to retire from international football.
“Even I don’t know when. It’ll happen when it happens,” Messi told Argentine media.
“After winning everything I want to enjoy the moment and wait for time to tell me when it’s the moment.
“Logically, given my age, one would expect it to be soon, but I don’t know for sure.”
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However, Tapia believes that Messi deserves the right to choose when to end his international career.