Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi has no plans to retire from football and has set out his plans for when he will finally decide to hang up his boots as he continues his incredible performances despite his age.
(PLO) – Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s revolution at Manchester United became clearer after information about two new coaches.
Lionel Messi, 36, revealed that age will not affect his decision to retire. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner started a new adventure in America by joining Inter Miami last summer. It ended Messi’s more than two decades of playing football in Europe for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, before he won the World Cup with Argentina in December 2022.
Just like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi is often asked when he will decide to stop his legendary football career. But unlike the majority of elite footballers who retire in their early or mid-30s, Argentinian football magician Messi is adamant that his decision to retire will not be based solely on age. Messi affirmed that he wants to continue playing as long as he can contribute positively to his team.
Lionel Messi shared on MBC’s Big Time Podcast: “I know that the moment I don’t perform, I’m no longer passionate or I don’t help my teammates, I will stop. I am a self-critical person.
I know when I’m good, when I’m bad, when I play well, when I don’t play well. And when I feel it’s time to take that step (retire), I will do it without thinking about my age. If I feel okay, I will always try to continue playing, because that’s what I like and what I know how to do.”
Lionel Messi finally won the most important trophy in his illustrious career when he and the Argentina team won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and also won the eighth Golden Ball later. Now, Messi seems to be enjoying life in Florida, winning his 44th career trophy with Inter Miami after winning the 2023 Leagues Cup.
Lionel Messi added: “At the sporting level, I am lucky to be able to achieve everything in my career, to achieve my dreams and the truth is that I could not ask for more than that from a professional level. and people, as well as with my family and my friends. I try to enjoy everything God has given me so far, a lot”.
And while there is no doubt that Lionel Messi is approaching the twilight of his career, Inter Miami coach Tata Martino insists that Lionel Messi’s willingness to compete and win is as strong as ever.
Inter Miami coach Tata Martino said: “The number one usually maintains their form throughout their career, the way they play and their desire to win, no matter where they play. That is a big characteristic of Lionel Messi.
I wouldn’t say it surprised me because this is my third time as coach of Lionel Messi. But today I still see the same thing as the first time in Barcelona, working it, but also of wanting to achieve everything in his path.