Buenos Aires, Aug 29
Lionel Messi has given his strongest hint yet that he will bid farewell to international football at next year's FIFA World Cup.
Argentina, already assured of a place at the 2026 finals in the United States, Mexico and Canada, will host Venezuela on September 4 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires before completing qualifying away to Ecuador on September 9.
"It (the Venezuela clash) is going to be a very, very special match for me because it's the last qualifying match," the 38-year-old forward told reporters after leading Inter Miami into the Leagues Cup final.
Messi said his family will be present for the Venezuela game and acknowledged it could be his last opportunity to appear in front of home fans, reports.
"I don't know if there will be friendlies or more matches, but it is a very special match, so my wife, my children, my parents, my siblings will be there with me," he added.