Lionel Messi has revealed that age will not influence his retirement decision.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, 36, began his new adventure in the United States by joining Inter Miami last summer. It followed over two decades in Europe with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, before he won the World Cup with Argentina in December 2022.
Messi, much like his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, is often quizzed about when he will decide to finally call time on his legendary career. But unlike the majority of elite footballers who retire in their early or mid-30s, the football magician is adamant his decision will not be based on merely his age.
The Argentine hero insists he wants to continue playing as long as he can contribute positively to his team, telling MBC's Big Time Podcast via The Mirror: "I know that the moment that I know that I'm not performing, that I'm not enjoying myself, that I'm not helping my teammates.
"I am very self-critical. I know when I am good, when I am bad, when I play well, when I play badly… And when I feel it is time to take that step, I will take it without thinking about age. If I feel good, I will always try to continue competing, because it is what I like and what I know how to do."
Messi ticked off the final and single most important piece of silverware in his glittering career when he captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar, picking up his second Golden Ball in the process. He now appears to be enjoying himself in Florida, winning his 44th career trophy with Inter Miami in the form of the 2023 Leagues Cup.
He added: "On a sporting level I was lucky to be able to achieve everything in my career, to have achieved my dreams and the truth is that I couldn't ask for more both from a professional and human level, as well as with my family, my friends. I try to enjoy everything that God has given me so far, which is a lot."
And while he is undoubtedly approaching the twilight of his career, Inter Miami manager Tata Martino claims Messi's willingness to compete and win remains as strong as ever.
The Inter Miami boss said: "The number ones maintain throughout their entire career the way they compete and the desire to win regardless of where they play. That is a big trait of his.
"I'm not saying that it surprises me because this is the third spell that I have managed him. But today I still see it in the same way as the first time in Barcelona, the desire to go for everything that falls on his path."
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