Lionel Messi is arguably one of the best players to have graced the beautiful game, the greatest of all time in the eyes of many. However, with the Argentine ace being on the wrong side of 30, his days as a professional footballer are sadly numbered.
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner admitted this himself. After getting away from PSG to join up with his national team for the ongoing international break, the 34-year-old was asked about his future with La Albiceleste, with the attacker hinting that the end might be closer than expected.
The two-time World Cup champions were in action yesterday, taking on Venezuela in a qualifier for Qatar 2022. Despite having already booked their ticket, Argentina were keen on triumphing as this was their last home game ahead of the tournament, and win they did, with Scaloni's men triumphing 3-0.
La Pulga, who has not been enjoying the best of seasons in Ligue 1, got on the scoresheet, netting his side's final goal of the game. After that match, Messi was asked about his plans and whether he will continue playing after the World Cup, with the icon confessing that he will explore the possibility of hanging up his boots after Qatar.
"I really don't know. I think about what's coming, which is very close, [the qualifying match against] Ecuador, the preparation matches in June and September," Leo said, as per Goal.
"After the World Cup I'm going to have to rethink a lot of things, whether it goes well or badly.
"There is a wonderful group here. People love me a lot and every day they show me more. I am very grateful. It does me good every time I come to Argentina. After the Copa America win, much more.
"Everything flows naturally and it is easier on the field. Winning helps make everything nicer and easier.
"[The game against Venezuela] was the last game here [in Argentina] before going to the World Cup. I think it's farewell in a very good way."
Leo's goal against Venezuela was his 81st in an Albiceleste jersey, reaching this figure in 158 international appearances. The former Barcelona superstar led his country to Copa America success last summer, ending their long wait for silverware, but will now focus on bringing the ultimate prize back to Argentina: the FIFA World Cup.
