FC Barcelona Icon Lionel Messi Discusses Retirement

Emotional FC Barcelona legend Lionel Messi admitted that he is in his “last games” after helping defending champions Argentina thrash Bolivia in a World Cup 2026 qualifier on Tuesday night.

Messi bagged a hat trick in the 6-0 rout, with two of his goals coming in the 84th and 86th minutes.

Reflecting on the win post-match, he said it was “very nice to play here feeling the affection of the Argentina fans”.

“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,” he added.

Now aged 37, the number 10 was once more asked about his future and retirement.

“I didn’t set any date or deadline about my future. 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,” he confessed.

“It’s a joy to be present and appreciate this moment. 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 national team].”

These latest remarks could mean that Messi is still open to helping Argentina defend its third World Cup crown in North America two years from now, with the FIFA flagship tournament set to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico in the summer of 2026.

The U.S. is of course the country that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner currently calls home after he joined Inter Miami on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 while turning down the opportunity of a potential second stint at Barca.

The Catalans weren’t put out by the snub, however, and will, according to Relevoformally invite their greatest ever player to form part of the Blaugrana’s 125th anniversary celebrations later this year.

If he can’t attend an official event, Messi could at least provide a video message for the club he joined as a shy, unknown teenager at the turn of the Millenium.