On Tuesday, Lionel Messi was at his brilliant best as he helped inspire Argentina to a comfortable 3-0 win over Croatia. That result saw the 35-year-old match and set several records, and on Sunday, he will set at least one more as it will be his 26th World Cup appearance - more than any other player in history.
Ahead of Sunday's final, which will see Argentina face either France or potentially Morocco, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner has shed some insight into his future plans. Given his age, many figured that this very well likely could be the last time he features at a World Cup, and now Messi has sought to provide further insights into what he will be doing on the international stage.
"I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying," he noted to reporters following Tuesday's match.
"Everything that I lived in this World Cup has been emotional, seeing how much it has been enjoyed in Argentina. There are a lot of years from this year to the next one. I don't think I will be able to do that...[so] to be able to] finish this way is brilliant."
It is interesting to note that he didn't specify whether he intends to call time on his international career, but rather has noted that indeed, the 2022 FIFA World Cup will be his last appearance in this competition. That means there is the possibility that Messi could be involved in the next iteration of the Copa America, which will take place in 2024 and will see Argentina, who are the reigning champions, attempt to win what would be a 16th title.
At that point, Messi will be 37 years old, so he may opt to get involved in that competition to have a chance to add yet another major title to his already massive trophy collection.
In any case, Argentina will have a few days of rest and respite as they will find out who their opponents in Sunday's final will be following the results of Wednesday's France vs. Morocco tie.
