2022 World Cup was probably my last: Messi

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
17 Jun 2023 00:25

On June 24, Messi will be turning 39 years old.

Lionel Messi won the FIFA World Cup 2022 along with his Argentine team (AFP)

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi said on Tuesday that the World Cup 2022 was probably his last and he "doesn't think" he will play at another, Chinese media reported.

"I have said several times before that I don't think so, that that (2022) was my last World Cup," he said in a video interview with China's Titan Sports. "I will see how things go but in theory, I don't think I will be around for the next World Cup."

Messi is currently in Beijing where he is scheduled to match him and his Argentina team for a friendly against Australia on Thursday at the 68,000-capacity Workers' Stadium.

Earlier this year, Messi had told the Argentinian newspaper Ole that it would be "very difficult" to partake in another World Cup.

On June 24, Messi will be turning 39 years old.

A week ago, Messi announced he is joining MLS side Inter Miami after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain ended.

Argentina's friendly with Australia on Thursday will be a repeat of the tie between the teams during the World Cup 2022, which Argentina won 2-1.

Tickets have rapidly sold out as fans are desperate to see the leading scorer in Champions League's history, with tickets being sold as high as 4,800 Yuan ($671).