Sport
Messi Nears End of Legendary Career Calls Argentina and His Barcelona Home
Lionel Messi, the legendary captain of Argentina, has acknowledged that his incredible journey as a professional footballer is drawing to a close.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever grace the game, Messi has amassed an unmatched collection of titles, making him the most decorated footballer in history.
The 37-year-old forward, currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, reflected on the twilight of his career during an interview with Marca, expressing gratitude for each moment he has left on the pitch.
Having won 45 trophies throughout their stellar career, Messi is cherishing the final chapters. “The end is near, and I’m enjoying and valuing every moment to the fullest,” Messi stated.
Despite moving to the United States, he reaffirmed his deep connection to Argentina and Barcelona, two places that he considers home.
“Argentina and Barcelona are my home. Today, I’m also in a place where I feel very happy, a new stage in my life,” he added, referring to his new adventure in Miami.
Messi’s rise to global stardom began at Barcelona, where he spent the majority of his career.
During his time with the Catalan club, he shattered numerous records and became synonymous with their success.
After leaving Barcelona, he continued his illustrious run with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), adding more silverware to his name before making a surprise move to Inter Miami in 2023.
His arrival in the U.S. sent shockwaves through the football world, marking the beginning of a new era for both Messi and the club.
His international achievements have been equally historic. Messi finally lifted the coveted FIFA World Cup trophy in 2022, leading Argentina to a triumphant victory in Qatar, which added to his previous Copa America success in 2021.
These victories solidified his legacy, silencing any lingering doubts about his ability to succeed on the international stage.
A record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi’s influence extends far beyond the titles and accolades.
He has inspired generations of footballers, captivated millions of fans across the globe, and transformed the sport with his extraordinary talent and humility.
Though his playing days may be nearing their conclusion, Messi’s impact on football will resonate for years to come, leaving behind a legacy that will be celebrated long after he retires.
French football pundit Walid Acherchour has named Lamine Yamal as his pick to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, sparking reactions among football fans.
Acherchour’s choice came as a surprise to some fans, who expected him to support fellow Frenchman Kylian Mbappé instead.
Speaking about his prediction, Acherchour expressed confidence in Yamal’s chances of winning the prestigious individual award.
“For me, Lamine Yamal, he is going to get it [2026 Ballon d’Or]. For me, there’s no doubt anymore,” Acherchour said, as quoted by Actu Foot. That start to the season shows that in fact, he was injured during the World Cup. He was the best player in La Liga, and he won the World Cup.
“Even if, for me, in fact, he doesn’t have the Ballon d’Or unanimously because his World Cup was average, even being average, he won it with Spain. He won La Liga with Barça.”
Former Manchester City player David Silva has shared his thoughts on the 2026 Ballon d’Or and revealed who he believes could win the prestigious award.
During a recent interview, the former midfielder was asked who he thinks will win the award, and he named Fabian Ruiz.
Silva’s choice sparked reactions from fans, especially as he did not mention Barcelona star Lamine Yamal as one of his picks.
“For me, teamwork is the most important thing, because without it you cannot win. If I had to give the Ballon d’Or to someone, it would be Fabian, because he has won the most titles in the last two years.
“He does not get enough recognition, I do not know why, because he is a wonderful player. I admire him a lot.”
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the Portugal national team remains uncertain following his sudden departure from the squad ahead of the team’s Nations League match against Denmark.
The 41-year-old forward left the national team camp after he was left on the bench during Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway and was informed that he would not start against Denmark. Ronaldo later said he would explain his decision to leave the camp at a later time.
Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has since said the door remains open for Ronaldo to return to the national team. Jesus said the decision ultimately rests with Ronaldo, while the Portuguese Football Federation has also described the situation as a misunderstanding.
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances, and his next decision could determine how his international career ends.
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