One of FIFA biggest and most talented players is taking a break from international play. According to multiple reports, Argentinian superstar, Lionel Messi, is leaving his home squad after thirteen years of competition. TNT Sports initially broke the news earlier this week with outlets like Express backing it up a bit later. It’s worth noting that Messi still has yet to confirm his official retirement from the mens’ side, but his departure from Argentina doesn’t look good for the Albicelestes.
The 31-year-old forward has appeared in 128 games since 2005 and has scored an impressive 65 times — this total also makes Messi his nation’s all-time leading scorer. Despite his undeniable individual prowess, Messi’s international squad has remained unable to snag the coveted World Cup. Lionel did, however, lead his teammates to the final match of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, eventually losing to a formidable Germany squad by a frustrating score of 1-0. For his invaluable contribution during that tournament, Messi took home MVP honours.
If there is one shining light at the end of the tunnel for Argentina supporters, it’s that Lionel has pulled this tactic once before. Following the aforementioned 2014 World Cup, the five-time Ballon D’Or winner announced that he was stepping away from international duties. Just a month later, he laced up his cleats once again and rejoined the team. Perhaps we’ll see the Messidona return to the pitch in the near future after all.
