Football icon Lionel Messi has no plans of retiring from international football, irrespective of what happens in the ongoing 2024 Copa America when Argentina aim to defend their title in the finals on Monday, July 15 (Philippine Standard Time).
Argentina progressed to the finals of the Copa America after beating Canada 2-0 in the semifinals at the MetLife Stadium on Wednesday, July 11 (Philippine Standard Time). Messi played a key role in the victory, scoring the second goal of the game and his first goal of the tournament.
The record eight-time Ballon d’Or award winner addressed his future in international football following the win, making it clear that he has no intentions of walking away from the sport anytime soon. His passion and commitment to the game remain as strong as ever.
“As I have said before, I intend to continue. I intend to keep living day-by-day without thinking about what will come in the future or whether I will continue or not. It’s something I just live each day. I’m 37 years old and only God knows when the end will be,” Messi said to reporters outside the locker room.
Lionel Messi shares plans for future after Copa América final.
— WorldNewsX365 (@WorldNewsX365) July 10, 2024
1. Lionel Messi plans to continue representing Argentina
2. Messi previously retired from international play in 2016
3. Teammate Ángel Di María will retire after the final
Lionel Messi has confirmed that he intends…
It’s important to note that Messi had previously retired from international football following Argentina’s loss to Chile in the 2016 Copa America final. However, he later reversed his decision, much to the delight of his fans and teammates. Since his return, Messi has been in remarkable form, scoring 54 goals in 73 international appearances, including his recent goal against Canada.
At 37 years old, Messi remains Argentina’s all-time leading goalscorer with an impressive tally of 109 goals. Additionally, he has scored 14 goals in Copa America history, placing him just three goals behind the tournament’s all-time top scorers, Argentina’s Norberto Mendez and Brazil’s Zizinho, who each have 17 goals.
Messi’s decision to come out of retirement has undeniably paid off. Since his return, he has led Argentina to victory in both the Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His determination and skill continue to inspire players and fans alike.
While Messi plans to continue his international career, his long-time teammate Angel Di Maria has announced that he will be retiring from international football after the Copa America final. Di Maria’s contributions to the team have been significant, and his presence will undoubtedly be missed.
“I’m not ready for my last game in the national team, but it’s time. Whatever happens in the final, I think I can leave through the front door. I gave everything. I always gave my life for this shirt. There were times when I didn’t get to, but lately I have. I am grateful to everyone who supported me,” Di Maria stated.
Di Maria’s departure marks the end of an era for Argentine football, but his achievements and dedication to the team will be remembered for years to come.
If Argentina manages to secure the Copa America title once again, they will make history by becoming the first team in South American history to win three consecutive major tournaments. This achievement would place them alongside Spain, the only other team to have accomplished this feat by winning Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and Euro 2012.
Messi’s unwavering commitment to the national team and his outstanding performance on the field have been pivotal in Argentina’s recent successes. As the team prepares for the final, fans are hopeful that Messi can lead them to another historic victory.
Messi’s leadership on and off the field has been instrumental in Argentina’s resurgence on the international stage. His ability to inspire his teammates, combined with his exceptional skill, has created a formidable force in world football. The younger players in the squad look up to Messi as a mentor and a role model, further solidifying his importance to the team.
Moreover, Messi’s continued presence in international football serves as a testament to his physical fitness and dedication to maintaining his peak performance levels. At an age when many players consider retirement, Messi’s relentless drive and passion for the game set him apart as a true legend of the sport.
As Argentina gears up for the Copa America final, the anticipation and excitement among fans are palpable. The final match will not only be a test of skill and strategy but also a showcase of Messi’s enduring legacy. His journey from a young prodigy to a global football icon has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his story continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
The upcoming final presents an opportunity for Messi and Argentina to further etch their names in the annals of football history. A victory would not only secure another title for Argentina but also highlight Messi’s incredible contributions to the sport. Regardless of the outcome, Messi’s decision to keep playing for his national team exemplifies his dedication and love for football.
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Lionel Messi’s decision to continue his international career with Argentina is a testament to his love for the game and his dedication to his country. As he gears up for the Copa America final, fans around the world are excited to see what the future holds for this football legend. Whether Argentina secures another title or not, Messi’s legacy is already etched in the annals of football history.
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