JAKARTA - The 2022 World Cup is confirmed to be the last for Lionel Messi. This was conveyed directly by the player.
Messi could actually still appear in the 2026 World Cup. At that time, he would turn 39 years old.
However, Messi seems to have different thoughts. "This is my last World Cup, of course," Messi told ESPN Argentina.
"I feel fine physically, I was able to take a very good pre-season this year, which I couldn't do last year. It's very important to get to where I am today, with good performance, with clear minds and a lot of expectations," he continued.
The 2022 World Cup is the fifth edition for the Paris Saint-Germain player.
Since making his international debut in 2005, Messi has defended Argentina 164 times. In addition, he is also the Argentina national team's top scorer with 90 goals.
Despite having experience appearing in the World Cup, Messi still feels nervous ahead of the four-year grand event. "There are worries, there are anxiety in the face of the World Cup. We can't wait to get started," said Messi.
The Argentine national team itself became one of the favorites to win the 2022 World Cup. Lionel Scaloni's team's brilliant score in the last 35 matches was the reason.
As is known, Albiceleste were unbeaten in their last 35 matches. "We have had a good moment, with a very complete and very strong team, but anything can happen," said Messi.
"All matches are very difficult. Favorites are not always the ones who win or take the path as expected. Argentina has always been a winning candidate because of its history. But we are not the only favorites, there are other teams above us," he concluded, as reported by AFP via Antara.
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