Lionel Messi, the renowned star of Argentinian football, has sparked retirement speculation by suggesting that Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Venezuela could be his last home match in the competition. Argentina has already secured a place in next year’s World Cup and will face Venezuela at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium next Thursday in the penultimate round of South American qualifiers. The final qualifier will be an away game against Ecuador on September 9th.
Speaking on the match’s significance, Messi stated, “It’s going to be a very, very special match for me because it’s the last qualifying match.” The 38-year-old also alluded to a possible departure from international football after next year’s World Cup, where Argentina will strive to retain their title from the 2022 tournament. Messi would be 40 years old by the time the qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup commence.
“I don’t know if there will be friendlies or more matches after (Venezuela), but it is a very special match, so my family will be there with me: my wife, my children, my parents, my siblings,” Messi said. “We’re going to live it like that. I don’t know what will happen next.”
Following his comments, CONMEBOL, South America’s football governing body, posted a social media tribute, labeling it “the last dance,” accompanied by an image of Messi in his Argentina jersey. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is also reportedly planning to increase ticket prices for the match, with entry-level tickets priced at $100 and premium seats reaching $500.