“I think he can keep going for many more years”

Argentina legend Angel Di Maria has urged Lionel Messi to delay his retirement from international football following the loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The former Albiceleste winger believes the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner still has what it takes to keep going after watching him dazzle at the tournament.

Argentina made waves with their incredible fighting spirit, upsetting the odds on their way to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final this summer. Unfortunately, they couldn’t outclass Spain in the decider, with the European giants emerging champions with a 1-0 triumph in New York.

Lionel Messi and his teammates were left heartbroken after the setback, and many believe the Inter Miami forward might have played his last game with the national team.

However, his former colleague Angel Di Maria has a different wish. The ex-Real Madrid forward thinks Messi can play for more years, judging by his incredible level of performance during the tournament.

“Yes, Leo should continue for as long as he wants. I think he can keep going for many more years,” Di Maria said during an interview with TNT Sports (via Mundo Albiceleste)

“At 39 years old, he’s proven he’s one of the best and still the best in history, with no ceiling,” he added.

Di Maria‘s comment is quite thoughtful and practical. Despite being 39 years old, Lionel Messi still displayed a very high level at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was arguably the best player in the competition.

The Argentina captain had a super prolific run, finishing with eight goals and four assists in eight games. He also topped most statistics, including chances created, completed dribbles, and so on, while becoming the all-time assist provider in the competition’s history after raising his tally to 12.

What is next for Lionel Messi after 2026 FIFA World Cup setback

Lionel Messi is yet to give any hints about his future with Argentina despite the intense speculation that arose after the FIFA World Cup this summer. The 39-year-old has distanced himself from the spotlight and is currently spending time with his family while recovering from the setback.

However, it definitely won’t take too long before we see him back in action. This is because the MLS season is currently underway and Inter Miami are actively fighting for the title. The attacker is expected to reunite with the team once his World Cup break is over sometime around early August.

The Herons secured a hard-fought 3-2 win over Chicago Fire in their last game on Thursday, July 23. Up next, they will go head-to-head with Montreal away from home on Sunday, July 26. It remains to be seen if they can make it back-to-back victories.