Lionel Messi played his last World Cup (irrefutably). At 39 years old and with a Cup in the showcase, it is very unlikely that the Argentine star is even thinking about participating in the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. The “ghosts of retirement” appear due to the sadness of having lost a final.

“The pain is very great and it will be difficult for this wound to close,” Messi said at the beginning of a message he published this Monday on his social networks.

The words of “10” have been very intelligent, because he claims to feel pain but does not announce any decision. Wise, because in the midst of pain and tears decisions should not be made, much less exposed.

After staying with the good, congratulating Spain and emphasizing that the team will go down in history for its two consecutive finals, Messi closes: "Once again we managed to unite as a country and be all together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine."

In his message there was no farewell or closing of the cycle, but rather a tribute to the performance of the entire team. But what lies ahead for Messi?

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Copa América 2028? Reach 1,000 goals?

The Argentine captain showed that he still has a lot of football left in his boots, but he needs to surround himself with a project in line with his age and current level. That is where Inter Miami, a club with which he has a contract until December 2028, continues to give Leo the prominence he deserves.

The 2028 Copa América is an open letter for Messi, and although the venue has not been confirmed, the United States could raise its hand again. That is, it would feel “like at home.”

But it would also be taking on a new risk: that of losing the champion badge once again. It is true that, at least in South America, Argentina seems to have no rival. Brazil is still under construction, Uruguay had a horrible World Cup and Colombia is having a psychological problem against the Albiceleste, but between now and 2028 the scenarios can change.

Another challenge for Messi would be to reach 1,000 goals, the same goal that Cristiano Ronaldo, his friend and rival of a thousand battles, is pursuing. But the Portuguese is much closer: 975 against 919.

It seems like an easy distance, when it comes to these two scoring monsters, but time passes and age weighs.

Leo is not an impulsive man, he is surrounded by a lot of family and sports affection. When the time comes he will announce it however he wants. His football is intact, as is his physique, but at 39, 40 or 41, the final decision is not only about legs, but about motivation.

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