BUENOS AIRES: Speculation over Lionel Messi’s international future has intensified following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with reports suggesting the Argentine Football Association is considering organizing a farewell match for the football icon.
The 39-year-old captain enjoyed another standout World Cup campaign, finishing with eight goals and four assists to rank among the tournament’s top scorers.
However, the final defeat has fueled questions about whether he will retire from international football.
Argentine media reports say Messi is expected to remain with the national team for the next few months to help ease the transition to a new generation of players, but he is not planning to compete at the next FIFA World Cup.
The reports also say the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is considering staging a special farewell match to honor Messi’s contributions to the national team.
Former Argentina winger Ángel Di María has urged Messi to delay any retirement decision, saying age should not determine the veteran’s future because he remains one of the world’s best players.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes also expressed hope that Messi will continue representing Argentina but said the final decision rests with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.