Lionel Messi might have already played his last game for Argentina. Leandro Paredes has indicated that the 39-year-old star seemed to have decided to conclude his international career ahead of the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.
Event Context
Leandro Paredes, a key member of the Argentina national team and close teammate of Lionel Messi, has provided insights suggesting that the World Cup final might have been the last game for the iconic captain. In an interview with DSports following his return to Boca Juniors, Paredes noted that the possibility of Messi’s final match loomed large over the team during the tournament.
‘We were anxious for the last match not to arrive,’ Paredes expressed. ‘I believe he had come to a decision, though I hope that’s not the case. I want him to keep playing.’ He further elaborated that Messi seemed to have mentally accepted that the final would be his last cap for the national side. ‘I think he had made a decision that it was also his last match with the national team,’ stated Paredes.
Throughout Argentina’s World Cup journey, the uncertainty surrounding Messi’s future created an emotional backdrop. After their thrilling 3-2 victory over Egypt in the round of 16, Paredes shared that the team rallied around their captain, wishing to delay his departure from the game. At that moment, the squad hoped that Messi’s farewell would ‘never come,’ as they continued to triumph over Switzerland and England, ultimately reaching yet another World Cup final.
However, Spain brought Argentina’s title aspirations to an end with a narrow 1-0 win, leaving Messi visibly emotional and reigniting discussions about whether the 2026 World Cup could be his final chapter with the national team.
At 39 years old during the tournament, Messi had intentionally refrained from making any formal retirement declarations ahead of time. His silence since the final means that Paredes’ statements should not be interpreted as an official retirement confirmation.
While no official farewell has been announced for Messi, Paredes’ remarks offer the strongest indication from within the Argentina squad that the talented captain approached the World Cup final with the thought that it could be his last appearance in the iconic Albiceleste jersey.
Player Focus
Paredes has left the opportunity open for Messi to reconsider his future, emphasizing that the final choice lies solely with the Argentina captain. He stated, “What brings him joy will certainly bring us joy as well,” while expressing his desire for Messi to remain with the team.
Team Analysis
Argentina’s hopes of defending their title came to a disappointing end on July 19 when Spain triumphed in the final with a score of 1-0 in New Jersey. Following the match, Messi was seen visibly distressed, but he has yet to make any official announcement regarding his retirement from international play.
Paredes has also expressed uncertainty about his future with the national team. “I don’t know; it’s a process. You need time to process it, reflect on it, and avoid making hasty decisions,” he stated.
Match Outlook
The Boca midfielder indicated that several members of Argentina’s experienced core may now be at a crossroads following a successful era under Lionel Scaloni. He emphasized the importance of these players considering various factors and engaging in discussions with the coach before making their future decisions.
