Just in: Messi reveals plan to retire from football

“Yes, as of today, I think it’s going to be my last club,” Messi told ESPN. However, the soon-to-be 37-year-old added, “I’m not ready to leave football either.”

The record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who became a legend with Barcelona by winning four Champions League titles and 10 La Liga championships, also led Argentina to victories in the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup. He is set to play for Argentina in this month’s Copa America, hosted in the United States.

After playing for Barcelona from 2004 to 2021, Messi moved to Paris Saint-Germain for two years before joining Inter Miami last year, where he quickly helped the team win the Leagues Cup.

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“It was a difficult step to leave Europe to come here,” Messi said, adding that becoming a world champion helped him see things differently.

Messi’s move has significantly boosted the profile of MLS in the United States, with matches selling out and his jersey becoming the most popular in the league.

Looking ahead, Messi is considering playing for Argentina in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, while also contemplating the end of his extraordinary career.

“My whole life I did this. I love playing ball. I enjoy the training, the day every day, of the matches. A little afraid that everything will end,” Messi said.

“I try to enjoy. That’s why I enjoy everything much more, because I’m aware that there’s less and less to go and I have a good time at the club. How lucky I am to have colleagues and friends by my side. I had a good time in the selection, where I have teammates and friends too, and many of them, and I enjoy the little details that I know I’m going to miss when I don’t play anymore.”

Just in: Messi reveals plan to retire from football