Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentina captain, has made it clear that age will not dictate when he decides to retire from professional football. Despite being 36 years old, Messi believes that the key factor in his retirement decision will be his ability to contribute effectively to his team’s success. He emphasized that he is very self-critical when assessing his performance on the field and will know when it is time to hang up his boots.
A Legacy of Success
As an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi has cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His leadership and talent were evident when he captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. Despite facing a hamstring injury that sidelined him for his national team’s recent international friendly matches, Messi remains a key figure in the Argentina squad. Coach Lionel Scaloni has acknowledged Messi’s importance by stating that he is the only player with a guaranteed place in the team.
Messi’s former coach at Barcelona, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, has praised his relentless desire to win, a quality that has remained unchanged over the course of his career. Messi himself expressed his passion for competition, stating that as long as he feels good and enjoys playing, he will continue to strive for success on the field. Winning his 44th trophy with Inter Miami in the 2023 Leagues Cup, Messi reflected on his career achievements and expressed gratitude for fulfilling his dreams on both personal and professional levels.
Despite his illustrious playing career, Messi has not yet decided on his post-football plans. He admitted that he is focused on enjoying the present moment and has not given much thought to what comes after retirement. While he hopes to continue playing for a while longer, Messi remains open to the possibilities that the future holds.
Lionel Messi’s approach to retirement showcases his commitment to excellence and self-awareness. Age may be just a number for Messi, but his dedication to the game and his team’s success will ultimately guide his decision on when to retire. Messi’s legacy as a footballing icon is secure, and fans around the world eagerly anticipate his future endeavors, both on and off the pitch.
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