- by Ashton Beauregard
- on 15 Oct, 2025
When Lionel Andrés Messi, the 38‑year‑old forward for Inter Miami and captain of the Argentina national team, scored a brace in a 3‑0 win over Venezuela on 4 September 2025, the atmosphere at Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti turned electric. A day earlier, Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), had sent a private briefing to Messi, urging him to keep the conversation about his international future open.
Messi’s International Journey: From Debut to Decision‑time
Messi first wore the sky‑blue jersey on 17 August 2005 against Hungary, a debut that marked the beginning of a record‑setting run. Over two decades he amassed 176 caps and 106 goals, carving his name into every major competition – Copa América, the 2014 and 2022 finals, and the 2023 World Cup triumph in Qatar. By the time he stepped onto the Monumental’s turf in September 2025, he had already lifted three major trophies with Argentina.
What makes this latest qualifier unique is its timing. The match was the final South American round‑Robin before the long‑haul to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Fans and pundits alike were watching to see if Messi would signal the end of an era.
The September 4 Qualifier: A ‘Very Special’ Farewell?
In the post‑match interview, Messi said, “Same as I said before about the World Cup that I don’t think I’ll play another. Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it.” He added, “I go day by day, I’m honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it, and when I don’t, I prefer not to be there.” The quote sparked headlines worldwide, with many interpreting it as a hint that the Monumental game could be his last on home soil.
He also stressed uncertainty about the 2026 tournament: “I’m excited and motivated to play it, but I haven’t made a decision yet.” The ambiguity left the AFA scrambling for a clear answer, especially as the federation is planning a U.S. tour to fine‑tune the squad ahead of the World Cup.
Tapia’s Direct Message: AFA’s Behind‑the‑Scenes Push
According to sources inside the AFA, Tapia’s August 28 note was both diplomatic and urgent. It thanked Messi for his commitment, highlighted his irreplaceable leadership, and outlined the federation’s plan to manage his workload. “We respect your process,” the memo reportedly read, “but we also need to align on the national team’s future, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.” Tapia, who has headed the AFA since 2017, has previously overseen the successful 2023 World Cup campaign, giving him credibility when he speaks about squad continuity.
The message also referenced the upcoming U.S. tour, suggesting that Messi’s presence would boost ticket sales and give younger players a chance to learn from the best. “Your influence goes beyond the field,” Tapia allegedly added, “it inspires the next generation of Albicelestes.”
Family, Former Players, and Fan Reactions
Within hours of the match, Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, posted an image of the trio of sons – Thiago, Mateo and Ciro – on Instagram with the caption, “Proud of you, every step you take and everything you built with love and effort.” The family tribute, while heartfelt, also subtly underscored the personal weight of any retirement decision.
Former goalkeeper Franco Armani, a 2022 World Cup winner, went public on Twitter: “Lionel, you’re the heart of Argentina. Think about the boys still waiting for a chance to lift a trophy with you.” Armani’s plea resonated with many fans, who flooded social media with #NoRetiroMessi memes and nostalgic clips of past glory.
On the streets of Buenos Aires, supporters gathered outside the AFA headquarters on 3 September, chanting “¡Messi, Messi!” as a local account @AlbicelesteTalk reported. The fervor mirrored a national mood that feels both celebratory and apprehensive.
What’s at Stake? Records, Revenue, and the 2026 World Cup
If Messi steps away before the 2026 tournament, several records could remain unfinished. He sits just three goals shy of surpassing Diego Maradona’s all‑time Argentine tally, and another five caps would lock him into the top‑three appearance list forever. From a commercial perspective, Messi’s presence drives sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and TV ratings – key revenue streams for the AFA, which projected a $12 million boost from the World Cup campaign.
On the sporting side, his leadership in the midfield offers a tactical edge that few can replace. Coach Lionel Scaloni has already hinted that the team’s style of play “needs a maestro” in high‑pressure matches, and without Messi the squad may have to adapt to a more collective, less individual‑driven approach.
Conversely, a graceful retirement could open space for emerging talents like Julián Álvarez or Enzo Fernández to step into the spotlight earlier, potentially accelerating the national team’s long‑term transition.
Looking Ahead: The Next Moves for Messi and the AFA
The AFA says a formal meeting with Messi is slated for early October, where both parties will discuss his fitness, schedule, and any possible phased retirement plan. Meanwhile, Messi will continue his club commitments with Inter Miami, where he is expected to finish the MLS season before joining the national team’s U.S. tour, likely in November.
Regardless of the final decision, one thing is clear: Messi’s influence on Argentine football remains profound. Whether he caps his international career with a final World Cup run or bows out after the September qualifier, the legacy he leaves behind will be a benchmark for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Messi’s retirement affect Argentina’s chances at the 2026 World Cup?
If Messi chooses not to play, Argentina loses a creative engine and a proven goal‑scorer. Coach Scaloni would need to redesign tactics around a more collective attack, likely relying on younger forwards such as Julián Álvarez. While the squad still boasts talent, many analysts believe Messi’s presence improves the odds of reaching at least the quarter‑finals.
What did Claudio Tapia say in his message to Messi?
Tapia’s August 28 note thanked Messi for his service, highlighted his importance for the upcoming U.S. tour, and asked him to keep an open dialogue about his international future. It stressed the AFA’s respect for Messi’s personal process while underscoring the federation’s planning needs for the 2026 World Cup.
Will Messi play his final match at the Estadio Monumental?
Messi called the 4 September qualifier a “very special match” and hinted it could be his last on home soil, but he stopped short of confirming. He mentioned his family would accompany him, suggesting a personal significance that could make it a farewell, yet the final decision will be revealed after his meeting with the AFA.
How have fans in Argentina reacted to the retirement speculation?
Social media exploded with #NoRetiroMessi trends, while streets outside the AFA headquarters filled with chanting supporters. Many fans posted nostalgic videos of Messi’s historic moments, and a wave of emotional tributes poured in from former players, illustrating the deep connection between the star and the nation.
What records could Messi still break if he stays for the 2026 World Cup?
He is three goals shy of surpassing Diego Maradona’s all‑time Argentine scoring record and needs five more caps to secure a spot in the top three for appearances. An additional World Cup would also give him a chance to join an elite group of players who have scored in three separate tournaments.