BUENOS AIRES: Sadly, Copa America might end Lionel Messi’s illustrious career with Argentina’s national soccer team.
At 37, Messi will participate in the tournament in the US, which begins this Thursday. His performance at Inter Miami indicates that he’s past his peak after spending two decades at the top level in Europe.
Although Messi has not announced his retirement and remains open to playing in a sixth World Cup in 2026 to defend his title from Qatar, he acknowledges his physical decline.
“I haven’t decided on that yet. When I feel I can no longer contribute to my team, I will retire,” Messi said during an interview with Saudi broadcaster Riyadh Season in March. “I’ve always maintained a good diet and training regimen. But as I age, I realize that the physical demands are increasing. As you grow older, things become more challenging.”
Last year, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner faced muscular injuries both in MLS and with Argentina, and the situation hasn’t improved much in 2024.
Messi appears to be embracing a more balanced life. He enjoys nights out with his wife Antonella and friends in Miami, spending time with his three children, and starting new ventures as soccer gradually becomes a minor part of his life.
Nevertheless, he has managed to score 12 goals and provide 13 assists for Inter Miami this season.
“I enjoy my time at the club. I’m fortunate to have teammates and friends (Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, all former Barcelona players) with me,” Messi told ESPN. “I also have a great time with the national team, where I have friends. I cherish the little things, knowing I’ll miss them once I’m no longer playing.”
Angel di Maria, a 36-year-old winger who has been Messi’s teammate for years with the national team, is expected to retire from international soccer after Copa America, raising questions about Messi’s future with the squad.
“As long as I feel good and can continue contributing, I will,” Messi said to the Star Plus platform in December. “Right now, I focus on preparing well for Copa America and competing fiercely. We aim to fight for the championship, as we always do.”
As Argentina’s all-time top scorer and leader with 26 World Cup appearances, Messi also pursues records in the continental tournament. He hopes to become the Copa America’s all-time leading scorer, holding 13 goals in six editions, four shy of the 17-goal record shared by Norberto Méndez of Argentina and Zizinho of Brazil.
Messi also aims to become the player with the most Copa America appearances, a record he currently shares with former Chile goalkeeper Sergio Livingston, both having played 34 games.
His teammates are reluctant to see him go.
“We’ll see how long he stays, but while he’s here, we’re going to enjoy it as much as possible,” said Argentina defender Cristian Romero. “We grew up watching him and are part of these tournaments.”
“Lionel Messi Poised for Emotional Farewell in Copa America 2024”
As Lionel Messi approaches the 2024 Copa America, speculation grows that this might be his final appearance in the tournament. For fans and players alike, this event could be a profoundly emotional moment, marking the end of an era for Argentine football. Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has been a central figure in Argentina’s national team for over a decade. If this is indeed his last Copa America, it will be a poignant farewell to a player who has not only achieved immense personal success but has also been a source of national pride. The tournament will likely celebrate his remarkable career, filled with nostalgia and tributes from supporters and peers.
“Messi’s F”Messi’sa America? The Iconic Forward’s Forward’se with Argentina”
This hea” ing suggests that the 2024 Copa America could be Messi’s laMessi’snament with the Argentine national team. The phrase “last dance” conveys “the idea of a grand, final performance, underscoring the significance of this Copa America for Messi. As an iconic forward who has shaped the modern era of football, Messi’s paMessi’stion is expected to be both a highlight and a conclusion to his storied international career. This tournament could symbolize a farewell to the global stage, offering fans one last chance to see him in action and celebrate his contributions to the sport.
“End of an Era: Messi Set to”Compete in What Could Be His Final Copa America”
This heading emphasizes that the 2024 Copa America might mark the conclusion of an era in football. Messi, who has been a central figure in Argentine football for many years, could be playing his last Copa America. The phrase “end of an era” reflects the”significance “of Messi’s career and the impacMessi’s potential departure from international tournaments. As the game progresses, fans and analysts will likely reflect on Messi’s influence and legacy, mystifying that his exit from the Copa America stage represents a significant shift in the landscape of international football.
“Lionel Messi Eyes One Last “opa America Glory Before Potential Retirement”
This heading suggests that”Messi is focused on achieving one final moment of glory in the 2024 Copa America before potentially retiring from international football. The term “one last” highlights Messi’s” urgency” and importance tournament as he seeks to cap his international career with a triumphant victory. It implies that Messi is motivated by the prospect of adding another major title to his illustrious career, and the 2024 Copa America represents a final opportunity for him to achieve this goal. Fans and critics will watch closely to see if Messi can deliver one last extraordinary performance before potentially stepping away from the international stage.
Frequently Asked Question
Why is Lionel Messi’s participation in the Copa Messi’s being considered as potentially his final tournament with Argentina?
Lionel Messi’s potential departure from the tMessi’sntina national team is under consideration due to his age and the physical toll of his career. At 37 years old, Messi is nearing the end of his playing career, and the Copa America could mark the end of his tenure with the national team, especially since he has not committed to playing beyond this tournament.
What did Messi say about his future with the national team?
Messi has indicated that he will retire from international football when he feels he can no longer contribute effectively. In an interview with Saudi broadcaster Riyadh Season, he mentioned that he would retire if he thought he was not helping his team. Howevehe’se has also left the possibility of participating in the 2026 World Cup open.
How has Messi performed for Argentina in recent tournaments?
Messi has had a notable impact on Argentina’s recent successes. He was Argentina’s way to victory in the 2021 Copa America and was a critical player in subsequent tournaments. Despite his age, he continues to be a significant field force, contributing goals and assists.
What are Messi’s achievements with ArgentiMessi’sar?
Lionel Messi’s achievements with ArgentiMessi’sude winning the 2021 Copa America and reaching the finals of the 2014 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America. He is also Argentina’s all-time top scorer, with his smerous records, including being the player with the most appearances in Copa America history.
How does Messi’s current form affect his retirement?
Messi’s current form remains strong. Messi’s is evidenced by his performances with Inter Miami and his contributions to the national team. Despite his advanced age, he continues to score goals and assist his teammates, which suggests that he still performs at a high level.
What impact would Messi’s retirement have on the Messi’sna national team?
Messi’s retirement would be a significant loss for the Argentina national team in terms of on-field contributions and leadership. His experience and skill have been crucial in guiding the team through major tournaments, and his departure would leave a void that younger players would need to fill.
Are there any indications of who might succeed Messi in leading the Argentina national team?
While it’s uncertain who will step into the role, potential successors, Messi include emerging talents from the current squad or promising young players being developed. The team’s future leadership will determine the next generation of players and how they adapt to taking on more responsibility.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s potential final tournament Messi’sArgentina at the Copa America signifies a pivotal moment in his illustrious international career. At 37 years old, Messi is nearing the end of his playing days, and the tournament could very well mark the conclusion of his time with the national team. His future remains somewhat open-ended, with Messi leaving room for a possible appearance in the 2026 World Cup if he feels he can still contribute effectively. Messi’s achievements with ArgentiMessi’smonumental include leading the team to victory in the 2021 Copa America and being an influential figure in multiple finals.
