Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami player, revealed that he would have retired from football if Argentina had lost the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar.
Al-Barghout succeeded in leading Argentina to its third historic World Cup title after the dramatic final victory over France on penalties.
Messi spoke to the media about his plans if he failed to win at Lusail Stadium in December 2022, saying, “I certainly would have retired, but after the victory I no longer thought about that.”
He also added, “The defeat from Saudi Arabia was a harsh blow, but after that it was a wonderful month and we were champions in the end. These moments are definitely the best.”
As for the date of his retirement, he said, “As I said, I do not think about it, but the moment I feel that I will not provide benefit to my team, I will retire.”
It is noteworthy that Messi’s contract with Inter Miami still extends for two years, and it is most likely that the 36-year-old will continue in football until the 2026 World Cup at the latest.
