Lionel Messi ended one of the most important chapters of his career by bidding farewell to the Argentine national team after 21 years, but has yet to hang up his boots. At 39 years old, the number 10 now focuses his attention exclusively on Inter Miami, the club with which he has a contract until 2028. Before his definitive retirement, the Argentine still has objectives to pursue inside and outside the United States.
The decision ends a relationship that spanned different phases. Messi went from being a target of criticism and comparisons with Diego Maradona to captain of the generation that put Argentina back at the top of world football. After successive disappointments in World Cup and Copa América finals, the player finally conquered the most desired titles, including the Copa América and, mainly, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Now, the scenario is different. Far from the pressure that accompanied much of his international career, Messi will be able to dedicate himself fully to North American football, seeking new titles with Inter Miami and possibly other personal and professional objectives in the United States.
