Argentina captain Lionel Messi has reignited talk of his future before even taking the field in the World Cup final. In a recent message, he made comments that many are reading as a hint at retirement from international football.
Posting a photo of the whole Argentina team on social media, Messi wrote: “One family. Over the past few years it was not just about winning a few titles, but the whole journey was extraordinary — the daily road with this team, fighting together, standing back up in hard moments, all of it. We enjoyed every moment. Thanks to every one of my teammates, all the team’s technical staff, and all those who work every day to hold our national team together like a family. Whatever happens on Sunday, this team has written a story we will never forget, one no one can erase.”
He wrote: “Come on, Argentina. We have already witnessed something special. From the moment the national anthem rang out in the semi-final, we could feel it. I know the fans wanted to win that match more than any other — first, the semi-final against England; second, that winning it meant another World Cup final. Its significance is immense. I know how happy the people of Argentina are. My mother and other family members sent me photos of people celebrating. I am happy and proud to have given the people of Argentina this joy.”
On the final, Messi said: “I have prepared for a year. I trained hard. I gave everything to keep myself in peak physical shape. Right now I just want to enjoy this. I’m not talking about the last World Cup win or any other trophy. This team always gives its best. This team owes nothing to anyone. This team never stops trying. We took the field with our football and our determination, and in the end we reached another World Cup final.”
This is the third time Messi has taken Argentina to a World Cup final. In 2014 he had to settle for runner-up, his Argentina losing to Germany. The last World Cup did not disappoint Messi: Argentina beat France in a tight final to become champions. This time, Spain stand in the way.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report