Lionel Messi has confirmed that he will not be retiring from international duty after the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory. Messi lifted the World Cup trophy for the first time in his career after Argentina defeated France on penaties in a dramtic finale.
Messi was playing in his fifth World Cup and what is likely to be his last. The Argentine superstar made it clear that he still desires to play international football and wants to wear the national team jersey again with the tag of world champion.
“No, I’m NOT gonna retire from the national team. I want to keep playing as World Cup champions with Argentina shirt,” said Messi to TYC Sport after the game.
Messi spoke about his delight at winning the big prize and revealed it was his big dream to achieve the same. The World Cup trophy was the only thing missing from Messi’s legendary career that saw him win multiple major trophies and international awards.
“It’s simply unbelievable. I knew that God was going to give me the Cup, I was sure — it was a big joy for us.I had this big dream since long time, I wanted to close my career with World Cup. I can’t ask more than this,” said Messi in the aftermath of the historic win.
After the semi-final against Croatia, Messi had declared the 2022 final will be his last-ever World cup as he does not see himself playing the 2026 edition set to be hosted in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Messi will be 39 by the time the next edition comes around.
“I feel very happy to be able to achieve this, to finish my World Cup journey by playing my last game in a final. It’s many years for the next one and I don’t think I’ll be able to do it. And to finish like this, it’s the best,” said Messi after their entry into the final on Tuesday.
