Lionel Messi is poised to make his 208th and final appearance for Argentina, marking an emotional end to his international career. The nation’s most-capped player and record goalscorer will step onto the pitch at the Monumental in Buenos Aires this Tuesday, with kickoff scheduled for Wednesday at 00:00 BST, for a farewell friendly against Benin.
This concluding chapter follows his formal retirement announcement on August 31, issued just six weeks after the heartbreak of a World Cup final loss to Spain. At the time, the legendary forward, often compared only to Diego Maradona in Argentina’s football history, stated that he felt he had exhausted his contributions to the national side. While head coach Lionel Scaloni has publicly suggested that the door remains open should Messi wish to reconsider, the player appears firm in his decision to close this segment of his career.
Beyond the international stage, Messi remains committed to his club career with Inter Miami. His current contract extends until the end of the 2028 season, featuring an annual review process. While those close to the 39-year-old expect him to fulfill his deal, a renewal remains possible if he continues to feel physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of professional football. But it is reviewed year by year, and nobody close to him expects him to walk away a day before he has to, the contract with Inter Miami runs to the end of the 2028 season.
Although Messi has historically avoided long-term career mapping, focusing instead on his immediate fixtures, his future after football is beginning to take shape. He is expected to remain involved within the sport, as he would find life outside of it difficult to navigate. Simultaneously, his growing business interests are set to expand into sectors far beyond the confines of the football pitch.
