Lionel Messi has recently stated that he plans to finish his playing career with Inter Miami, and will not be joining an Argentine team. The 36-year-old World Cup champion expressed his sentiment in an interview with ESPN while preparing for the Copa América tournament, where Argentina is the defending champions.
Messi, who has won a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, achieved a significant milestone by leading Argentina to the World Cup title in Qatar in 2022. After departing European football last year, Messi joined Inter Miami, whose contract with him is due to expire at the end of the 2025 season. Reflecting on his move to the club, Messi acknowledged that it was a challenging decision to leave Europe but winning the World Cup has provided him with a fresh perspective.
Despite the hopes of many Argentine fans that Messi would finish his career at Newell’s Old Boys, his childhood club in Rosario, Messi emphasized that he is focused on appreciating and enjoying the final stage of his career. Surrounding himself with familiar faces like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, former teammates from Barcelona, has contributed to his enjoyment at Inter Miami. Messi also highlighted the importance of savoring the small moments during training, matches, and everyday life, recognizing that his playing days won’t last forever.
