In what may have been his last competitive home game for Argentina, Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance, netting two goals in a commanding 3-0 win against Venezuela. However, a significant question looms: could this period mark the twilight of his international career? At 38 years old, Messi continues to showcase his unparalleled talent for both Argentina and Inter Miami, yet a growing number of injuries over recent years casts a shadow. These recurring physical setbacks might lead Messi to consider retiring his boots, potentially even before the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup.
Following the match, Messi candidly discussed his current physical condition and future prospects, expressing reservations about his participation in the next World Cup.
“Given my age, it`s most probable that I won`t reach it. But we are very close, so I am enthusiastic and driven to play. As I`ve always said, I approach things day by day, match by match, guided by how I feel. Each day, I strive to feel good and, most importantly, to be honest with myself,” Messi stated.
He continued, “When I feel good, I truly enjoy it. But when I don`t, frankly, I don`t have a good experience, so I`d rather not be there if I`m not feeling well. So, we`ll see. I haven`t made any definitive decision regarding the World Cup. I`ll take it one game at a time, complete the current [MLS] season, then go through preseason, and with six months remaining [until the World Cup], we`ll assess my condition. Hopefully, I`ll have a strong preseason in 2026 and conclude this MLS season positively; then I will make my decision.”
While playing remains his objective, Messi explicitly stated that the cumulative effect of injuries is becoming increasingly challenging. He already missed four games for Inter Miami in July due to muscle problems, and such issues are becoming more frequent as he advances in age. With ten additional regular season matches remaining for the Herons, the physical demands on Messi`s body will only intensify. This necessitates his cautious approach to evaluating his fitness leading up to the World Cup. A World Cup without Messi would certainly feel unusual, yet it remains a distinct possibility at this juncture. Should he participate for Argentina in 2026, Messi would join Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the first players to appear in six different World Cups.
Ecuador vs. Argentina: Past Match Details
- Date: Tuesday, September 9
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha – Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Stream: Fanatiz
- Odds: Ecuador +220; Draw +165; Argentina +170
