Messi’s Insights on Retirement: Barca Legend Shares Personal Journey of “Rebuilding Life”
Lionel Messi, the footballing legend, has recently opened up about his thoughts on retirement and the challenges he faced during his move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). In an interview with the Big Time Podcast, Messi shared his perspective on when he will retire, his current priorities, and his experience at PSG.
When it comes to retirement, Messi made it clear that age will not be the sole determining factor for him. Instead, he emphasized the importance of his performance, enjoyment, and contribution to his team. According to Messi, he will make the decision to end his career when he no longer feels that he is performing at his best or helping his teammates. This highlights his dedication to the sport and his commitment to making a meaningful impact on the field.
Despite being 36 years old, Messi has no concrete plans for retirement yet. He prefers to focus on enjoying each day and living in the present rather than worrying about the future. As he stated in the interview, “I try to enjoy everyday life, the moments, without thinking about the future.” This mindset reflects his passion for the game and his desire to continue playing for as long as possible.
Messi’s career took a significant turn in 2021 when he made the unexpected move from Barcelona to PSG. Barcelona’s financial problems prevented them from offering him a new contract, leading him to seek new opportunities elsewhere. However, Messi admitted that the transition to PSG was not an easy one for him. He expressed his initial reluctance to leave Barcelona, stating, “I wasn’t ready to leave, it all happened very quickly.” The sudden change forced him to rebuild his life from scratch at PSG, including adjusting to a new league, club, and teammates.
Despite the challenges he faced, Messi managed to make a mark at PSG. During his two years with the club, he scored 32 goals in 75 appearances and won two French league titles. Additionally, he achieved a significant milestone by winning the 2022 World Cup with Argentina. These accomplishments demonstrate Messi’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to adapt to new environments.
When it comes to his future, Messi remains focused on making the most of his talents. As he stated, “I try to take advantage of everything God has given me so far, which is a lot.” His commitment to continuous improvement and his love for the game are evident in his words. While currently playing for Inter Miami, Messi’s contract expires at the end of the 2025 MLS season, but there is an option for an extension until 2026. Since joining Miami, Messi has been in exceptional form, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists during a record-breaking 12-game unbeaten streak.
Messi’s time at Inter Miami has already brought success to the club, as they clinched their first piece of silverware, the Leagues Cup against Nashville SC, in a thrilling penalty shootout. With his presence on the field, Messi has not only contributed to the team’s success but has also inspired his teammates to perform at their best.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s insights on retirement provide a glimpse into his mindset and priorities as he continues his footballing journey. His dedication to the sport, enjoyment of the present moment, and willingness to adapt to new challenges are all evident in his words. As Messi continues to make an impact on the field, fans around the world eagerly await his future endeavors and are grateful for the joy he brings to the beautiful game.