Lionel Messi delivered a classic efficiency in what was his ultimate CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier on Argentine soil Thursday in opposition to 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 through the pre-match warm-up. At 38, questions naturally proceed to develop about his future — when he’ll lastly dangle up his boots, and whether or not he’ll be out there for Argentina on the 2026 World Cup.
Talking within the blended 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 excellent, then I had that harm 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 comfy once more. Fortunately now I’ve managed to play three matches in a row, and we have now an vital stretch arising as nicely. I hope to complete the yr nicely so I can begin a very good preseason.”
Requested particularly about enjoying in opposition to Ecuador, Messi revealed his dialog with coach Lionel Scaloni. “I spoke with Leo and we determined—or moderately, he determined—that I ought to relaxation,” he acknowledged. “As I simply stated, I’m coming off an harm, and although I’m fantastic now, we most popular to keep away from the journey and having to play one other match, so I can relaxation correctly and put together nicely for what’s coming,” he added.
Lionel Messi of Argentina appears to be like on through 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 acquired an vital run of video games the place we’re combating for the MLS, which is an goal, and I hope to be at my greatest. 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 following 35 days will play 9 MLS video games, some rescheduled because of the membership’s deep runs in worldwide competitions. With the Herons nonetheless answerable for their Supporters’ Protect chase, Messi is decided to complete the season robust, each when it comes to 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 in opposition to 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 degree 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 say the report on his personal in opposition to Ecuador, however by stepping apart, he’ll stay tied on the prime of the record, sharing the milestone with one other regional legend.
