LIONEL MESSI has hinted that he could retire from international football after this year’s World Cup.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, 34, made his presence known during Argentina’s 3-0 win against Venezuela on Friday.
Messi could retire at the end of the year Credit: AP He rounded off a fantastic performance with a goal during the final stages of the match.
Before the World Cup Qualifier, Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni suggested that it would be Messi’s last game in the country before his retirement.
During a press conference on Thursday, he said: “Tomorrow he has the opportunity to play in his country, with his people.
“Surely the last match we could play here (before the World Cup) and he can say goodbye to Argentina in the best way and hope that the future is even better.”
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Southgate says it’s TOO LATE for talk of England boycotting Qatar World Cup Messi himself added to the speculation after the match, and implied that he will reconsider his professional playing career after the World Cup.
The PSG star said: “I can only think about what’s coming next, I only think about facing Ecuador.
“After the World Cup, I will have to rethink many things.”
Despite being considered by many as the ‘Greatest Of All Time’, Messi has not had the best season so far.
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He has failed to find his feet since arriving in Paris, mainly due to various injury issues.
The star was also booed off of the pitch earlier this month following a 3-0 win against Bordeaux.
Despite the victory, fans were still very frustrated about the club’s defeat to Real Madrid which saw them crash out of the Champions League.
Messi’s current deal with PSG expires in June 2023.
He has not confirmed whether or not he will extend, move away or retire from football completely.
Angel Di Maria also appeared to announce his retirement from international football on Friday evening.
In an Instagram post, he said: I’m just going to say thank you for the enormous love received.
“I always dreamed of everything I lived on this beautiful night.
“It was probably my last match with this shirt in Argentina. And being able to say that it was a wonderful night is an understatement.
“Thank you, thank you and a thousand times thank you. Now if to congratulate the whole team for the incredible match that was played.
“A perfect match of all. To continue growing and dreaming together. Let’s go Argentina!!”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
