Lionel Messi delivered a classic efficiency in what was his ultimate CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier on Argentine soil Thursday towards Venezuela. With La Albiceleste now turning the web page to face Ecuador on Tuesday, the Argentina captain revealed the explanation for his absence from the squad.
Followers packed the Estadio Monumental to see Messi, who was visibly emotional in the course of the pre-match warm-up. At 38, questions naturally proceed to develop about his future — when he’ll lastly cling up his boots, and whether or not he’ll be obtainable for Argentina on the 2026 World Cup.
Talking within the combined zone after the Venezuela match, Messi mirrored on his present health whereas setting expectations for Inter Miami’s run-in: “The reality is I had been feeling superb, then I had that damage that sidelined me—although it was solely 15 days, it broke my rhythm, as a result of once I got here again I didn’t really feel snug once more. Fortunately now I’ve managed to play three matches in a row, and we have now an essential stretch arising as effectively. I hope to complete the yr effectively so I can begin a very good preseason.”
Requested particularly about enjoying towards Ecuador, Messi revealed his dialog with coach Lionel Scaloni. “I spoke with Leo and we determined—or slightly, he determined—that I ought to relaxation,” he acknowledged. “As I simply stated, I’m coming off an damage, and although I’m superb now, we most well-liked to keep away from the journey and having to play one other match, so I can relaxation correctly and put together effectively for what’s coming,” he added.
Lionel Messi of Argentina seems on in the course of the South American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Argentina and Venezuela.
The Argentine star additionally pointed to the upcoming run of fixtures with Inter Miami as the primary precedence: “We’ve obtained an essential run of video games the place we’re combating for the MLS, which is an goal, and I hope to be at my finest. Then in October we have now friendlies once more, we’ll meet up as soon as extra, in order that’s just about it.”
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Lionel Messi shares heartfelt message after ultimate official match in Argentina: ‘It’s not one thing I like or need’
Inter Miami return to motion September 13, and over the subsequent 35 days will play 9 MLS video games, some rescheduled because of the membership’s deep runs in worldwide competitions. With the Herons nonetheless in charge of their Supporters’ Defend chase, Messi is set to complete the season sturdy, each by way of outcomes and his private health.
Messi set to overlook record-breaking alternative
Messi’s brace left followers in awe in what gave the impression to be his farewell to the competitors. Nonetheless, by sitting out towards Ecuador, the Argentine legend will miss a novel alternative to set a CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers report on his personal.
With Thursday’s look, Messi drew stage with Ecuadorian defender Ivan Hurtado because the all-time chief in South American World Cup qualifier appearances with 72. The captain had the chance to assert the report on his personal towards Ecuador, however by stepping apart, he’ll stay tied on the prime of the checklist, sharing the milestone with one other regional legend.
