Argentina's Lionel Messi has been seen getting emotional on the pitch after his team's loss to Spain in the FIFA World Cup, potentially bringing an end to his international soccer career.
Messi's Argentina fell to Spain 1-0 in the World Cup, a defeat that has left the legendary player's future in the sport uncertain. The 39-year-old has entertained the idea that the 2026 World Cup would be his last, but has not made a definitive statement on his international soccer future.
In his final World Cup match, Messi played in six World Cups and scored 21 goals in the tournament during his tenure. He has played a total of 3,054 minutes and has 12 assists. Messi first played for Argentina at the 2006 World Cup, making three appearances with one goal and one assist as Argentina reached the quarterfinals.
After the loss to Spain, Messi was seen getting emotional on the pitch, seemingly taking everything in for possibly the last time on such a grand stage. "The best part of all these years was never just the titles, but the journey itself. Sharing the day-to-day with this group, competing together, picking ourselves up during tough times, and enjoying every step of the way," Messi said in a heartfelt statement. "Thank you to each of my teammates, the coaching staff, and everyone who works every day to ensure this national team remains a family. No matter what happens tomorrow, this group has already written a story that we will never forget, and that no one can erase."
The Argentina national team took to social media to express their gratitude towards Messi. "Tus lágrimas son las nuestras, Capitán," they wrote, which translates to "Your tears are ours, Captain." "Nos diste las alegrías más grandes de nuestras vidas. Gracias por la entrega, por la magia y por dar la vida hasta el último segundo," they added, which translates to "You gave us the greatest joys of our lives. Thanks for the commitment, for the magic, and for giving your life until the last second." The team ended with a heartfelt message, saying "¡Te amamos para siempre, Leo!" which translates to "We love you forever, Leo!"
As for Messi's future, it remains uncertain. If he does intend to play in the next World Cup in 2030, he will turn 43 by the time the tournament begins. For now, the world waits with bated breath to see if this will be the end of an era for the legendary player.
Source: Yahoo Sports
