Introduction
Lionel Messi, at 37, remains a football legend. His recent achievements with Argentina, including two consecutive Copa America 2024 and a World Cup victory, have cemented his legacy. However, as he nears the end of his career, it’s time for him to consider retiring from international football to avoid the pitfalls faced by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi’s International Success
For years, critics doubted Messi’s leadership and questioned his ability to replicate his club success on the Copa America 2024. Those doubts are now gone. Messi has led Argentina to triumphs that have solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers ever.
The Temptation to Play On
The next World Cup is only two years away, and Messi would be 39 by then. While he wouldn’t be the oldest player to feature in the tournament, continuing to play might not be the best choice for him. Despite still possessing remarkable skills, the signs of aging are evident.
The Risk of Tarnishing His Legacy
Messi’s legacy is already secured. He has nothing left to prove. Continuing to play might risk diminishing his achievements, much like what happened with Ronaldo. While Messi’s influence on the Argentina team remains significant, his performance at the last Copa America 2024 showed signs of decline. He scored only one goal and provided one assist in five appearances. Injuries also forced him to leave the final in tears, highlighting the physical toll the game has taken on him.
The Increasing Issue of Injuries
Injuries are becoming more frequent for Messi, causing him to miss more matches for both club and country. The physical demands of the sport are catching up with him, and his body is not as resilient as it once was. This is a clear indication that it might be time for him to step back from international football.
Learning from Ronaldo’s Example
Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent performances with Portugal have shown that staying on too long can sometimes harm a player’s legacy. Ronaldo, once a dominant force, has faced criticism for his declining performances. Messi should avoid this by retiring while he is still at the peak of his powers.
The Perfect Time to Retire
Now is the ideal time for Messi to retire from international football. He has achieved everything possible with Argentina and remains at the height of his powers. Retiring now would allow him to leave on a high note, preserving his legacy and avoiding the potential pitfalls of staying too long.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi has nothing left to prove in international football. His achievements with Argentina have silenced all critics. As he approaches the end of his career, retiring from international football now would be a wise decision. By doing so, he can preserve his legacy and avoid the mistakes made by other great players. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
