Lionel Messi has dropped a hint that he is contemplating retirement, insisting he is fighting his "last battles" for Argentina.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Messi guided Argentina to Copa America finalCanada beaten 2-0 in semi-finalMessi hints at hanging up bootsWHAT HAPPENED?
Messi scored Argentina's second goal in their Copa America semi-final against Canada, deflecting in Enzo Fernandez's strike, as his side advanced to the final. They will face either Uruguay or Colombia in the final and the Inter Miami star appears to know that his career is winding down.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Messi had not scored at the 2024 Copa before getting his foot to Fernandez's shot, but he did provide an assist in the group game against Canada. Indeed, Messi and Co have beaten the same opponents twice, winning 2-0 each time.
WHAT MESSI SAID
Messi told : "Yes, I am aware that these are the last battles… I am enjoying them to the fullest.
"It’s not easy to be in a final again, we need to enjoy, enjoy every moment."
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
Argentina are in the Copa final and will watch Uruguay's semi-final with Colombia closely. They will face the winner on Sunday night. It remains to be seen if that turns out to be Messi's final game for his country, though he has not ruled out the prospect of playing on until the 2026 World Cup in North America.