Lionel Messi, the celebrated Argentinian footballer, has given a strong indication that his international career may be nearing its end. He revealed that Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Venezuela could be his last home qualifying match. Argentina has already qualified for the World Cup next year and is scheduled to play Venezuela at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium next Thursday. The final qualifier will be an away game against Ecuador on September 9th.
“It’s going to be a very, very special match for me because it’s the last qualifying match,” Messi, who is 38 years old, explained. He further hinted that he might retire from international football after the next World Cup, where Argentina will attempt to defend their championship title won in Qatar in 2022. Considering the 2030 World Cup qualifiers begin in 2027, Messi will be 40 years old by then.
Messi also mentioned the presence of his family at the match, adding, “I don’t know if there will be friendlies or more matches after (Venezuela), but it is a very special match, so my family will be there with me: my wife, my children, my parents, my siblings. We’re going to live it like that. I don’t know what will happen next.”
CONMEBOL, South America’s football governing body, reacted to his statements by sharing a social media tribute, using the phrase “the last dance” alongside an image of Messi in his Argentina jersey. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is expected to increase ticket prices for the match, with prices starting at $100 for entry-level seats and reaching up to $500 for premium seats.