In a recent interview with Fabrizio Romano for ‘433’, Argentine football legend Lionel Messi discussed his future plans, his thoughts on the upcoming 2026 World Cup, and his envisioned role after retiring from competitive play. Despite his extensive and illustrious career, Messi expressed a clear reluctance to transition to coaching. He stated, “I wouldn’t like to be a coach,” noting that he is still uncertain about what he wants to do after his playing days. He emphasized the importance of living in the present, focusing on enjoying the game, honing his skills, and appreciating his daily experiences. This perspective highlights his commitment to the sport and the joy he finds in it, rather than the responsibilities that come with coaching.
Messi’s comments on the 2026 World Cup revealed his ambivalence towards participation. He admitted, “The truth is that I don’t know,” when questioned about his plans for the tournament. He conveyed a desire to first have a productive end to the season and a proper pre-season, something he felt he missed in the previous year due to excessive travel commitments. Rather than fixating on the future, Messi prefers to adopt a day-to-day approach, stating that he would assess how he feels as the tournament approaches. This mentality underscores his desire to maintain a healthy and positive outlook, allowing his performance to dictate his decisions moving forward.
In reflecting on his legacy, Messi expressed gratitude for his career achievements and experiences. He desires to be remembered fondly by fans and stated that his most significant dream—winning the World Cup—took immense effort and persistence. Messi highlighted his fortune in clinching numerous titles with FC Barcelona and the national team while also enjoying a fulfilling personal life. His acknowledgment of gratitude towards God for his journey reveals a deep sense of humility and respect for the opportunities he has had, emphasizing that while achievements are important, life’s broader experiences are invaluable.
Shifting focus to his current club, Inter Miami, Messi discussed the team’s recent successes and aspirations for the future. After clinching the regular season title, he expressed happiness and pride in the achievement, acknowledging its significance in their journey. However, Messi was clear about the bigger goal at hand—winning the MLS Cup. He noted that while Inter Miami has celebrated their progress, they must learn from past mistakes, especially as playoff games approach. By recognizing potential vulnerabilities in their gameplay, Messi highlighted the competitive nature of the league while maintaining confidence in their abilities, believing that they are among the favorites to win.
Moreover, Messi addressed the club’s broader vision, emphasizing a growth-oriented philosophy. He remarked that Inter Miami does not set limits in their ambitions and pointed out that the club’s trajectory thus far demonstrates an unwavering commitment to becoming great within the MLS and potentially on a global scale. This forward-thinking outlook signifies Messi’s keen understanding of the sports landscape and his belief in the organization’s potential to evolve and succeed. Such declarations not only inspire current teammates but also instill confidence in fans and stakeholders, showcasing the club’s aspirations to elevate its status.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s reflections during the interview provide insight into his character and professional philosophy as he navigates the latter part of his playing career. His focus on enjoying daily activities, uncertainty regarding future commitments, appreciation for his legacy, and ambitions with Inter Miami illustrate a player who remains dedicated to his craft while also being mindful of his impact on those around him. Whether it be on the pitch with Miami, contemplating his role in future tournaments, or considering his legacy, Messi’s words resonate with authenticity and a deep love for football, reassuring fans that his passion for the game remains as strong as ever.
