Lionel Messi’s era with the Argentine national team does not appear to be over, despite the loss of the World Cup and the age of the “Albiceleste” captain. The 39-year-old star has not yet announced his decision, leaving all possibilities open regarding his future with the national team.

In Argentina, there is hope that Messi will continue to play for the national team, at least for the foreseeable future. He himself, however, has not confirmed either his stay or his departure, with final decisions expected in the coming months.

His outstanding performance at the World Cup, where he scored eight goals, showed that he remains at a high competitive level. The loss in the final and the fact that Argentina came within a hair’s breadth of yet another title may influence his thinking, although he had already left open the possibility of continuing.

Messi has repeatedly emphasized that at this stage of his career, he evaluates his situation year by year, depending on his physical and competitive condition. He feels good right now, but he knows that things could change in the near future.

Argentina’s next major goal is the 2028 Copa América, which will most likely be held in the United States. The timeline coincides with the duration of Messi’s contract with Inter Miami, a fact that keeps alive the possibility of him leading the “Albiceleste” once again in a major tournament.

Until then, Lionel Scaloni’s team will play six friendly matches this fall before turning its attention to the next cycle of international fixtures. Argentina has already secured a spot in the 2030 World Cup as one of the symbolic co-hosts, but the big question remains: will Lionel Messi be there too?

*photo source: AP