Lionel Messi Signals End of International Career, Making 2028 Copa America Appearance Unlikely
Argentina’s talisman, Lionel Messi, has delivered a difficult message to fans about his future with the national team, suggesting his legendary international career is drawing to a close. Following yet another dominant run that saw La Albiceleste reach the 2024 Copa America final, the superstar indicated that the 2028 tournament is simply too far ahead for him to consider. Argentina who win many times copa america champions so their side definately loss their service much.
Despite turning 37, Messi demonstrated his enduring class in the 2024 Copa America. Though he is no longer expected to play 60 matches a season, his match-winning talent remains undisputed. After sustaining an upper leg injury that briefly sidelined him, he made a crucial return, scoring against Canada to propel Argentina into the final.
Following the semi-final victory, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner spoke candidly about his mindset with the national team. “I’m living it like I lived it in the last Copa America, in the last World Cup. These are the last battles and I’m enjoying them to the maximum,” he told reporters.
Crucially, when asked about future tournaments, the forward, who plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, confirmed the news that many fans feared: the 2028 Copa America is currently too distant for him to commit to.
With the team already having secured the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 Copa America, this current run has added significance for Messi and his long-time veteran teammates like Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi.
While the door to his future remains open, even his participation in the 2026 World Cup remains unconfirmed. Manager Lionel Scaloni, however, has made it clear that the decision is entirely up to the player. When questioned about Messi’s “last battles” comments, Scaloni emphasized the deep respect the organization has for him.
“We have to leave him alone, he knows that we will not be the ones to close the door on him,” Scaloni stated. “He can stay with us as long as he wants, even when he retires… Let him decide what he wants.”
For fans hoping to see Messi lead Argentina in the 2028 Copa America, the player’s comments confirm that they must savor his remaining appearances, as his time on the international stage appears to be nearing its unforgettable conclusion.
