Messi Hints at Retirement After Scoring Twice in Argentina’s 3-0 Win Over Venezuela
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Messi Hints at Retirement After Scoring Twice in Argentina’s 3-0 Win Over Venezuela
Lionel Messi has fueled speculation about his possible retirement after leading Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Venezuela in Buenos Aires. The Argentine captain scored twice, in the 39th and 80th minutes, while Lautaro Martínez added another goal.
“Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of,” Messi said. “I’ve experienced a lot of things on this pitch, both good and not so good, but it’s always a joy to play in Argentina, in front of our fans.”
The 37-year-old, denied a hat-trick by an offside call, admitted that age might prevent him from featuring in another World Cup.
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“Same as I said before about the World Cup that I don’t think I’ll play another. Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But well, we’re almost there so I’m excited and motivated to play it,” he stated.
He added: “Day by day, trying to feel good and above all, being honest with myself. Hopefully I’ll have a good preseason in 2026 and finish this MLS season well and then I’ll decide.”
With Argentina already qualified, they remain at the top of the South American standings with 38 points, joined by Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, Brazil and Ecuador in securing World Cup spots.
