Following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final, Lionel Messi has returned home to Rosario for a short break with his family, while speculation continues over his international future.
The 39-year-old captain arrived in Argentina after the tournament and has kept a low profile, choosing to spend time with his wife, Antonela, and their three sons before returning to club duties with Inter Miami.
Messi is expected to miss Inter Miami’s next two MLS matches as he recovers physically and mentally from the demanding World Cup campaign. He remains under contract with the club until 2028.
Although Messi expressed pride in his teammates and congratulated Spain after the final, he has not indicated whether he will continue playing for Argentina. With the Albiceleste already qualified as co-hosts for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, there is no immediate pressure to make a retirement decision.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is reportedly prepared to give Messi as much time as he needs, with officials and supporters hoping the legendary forward will continue leading the national team into the next chapter.
For now, Messi’s future with Argentina remains undecided, but the door to the national team remains wide open.