Javier Zanetti, a former football player for Argentina and Inter Milan, has supported his countryman and FIFA World Cup winner Lionel Messi to compete in the tournament the following year, stating that although it is up to the striker to decide whether or not to play, he has “no doubt that it will happen.” At the age of 38, Messi won this year’s MLS Cup, the most coveted award for his team, Inter Miami, in Major League Soccer. With 29 goals and 19 assists in 28 games, he had a tremendous season with the team.
He didn’t even score a goal in the MLS Cup final match, but his assists helped his team defeat Vancouver Whitecaps FC 3-1, making him the ultimate playmaker. Messi’s participation in the prestigious football competition next year is almost certain based on what has been observed of his performance and level of fitness. According to Goal.com, Zanetti told FourFourTwo, “That has to be his decision, but I think yes.” There are just a few months left, and I think he wants to represent his nation once more. I’m positive it will occur.
Inter Milan legend Javier Zanetti believes Lionel Messi is not too old and still has the ability and leadership to continue at the highest level. Zanetti said the priority should be for Messi to enjoy football, with the upcoming World Cup serving as a key moment for Messi to assess whether he wants to keep playing. Messi himself expressed hope of featuring in the World Cup at age 39, saying he would love to be there and that the tournament remains deeply special for him and Argentina. He also praised the strong mentality, winning mindset, and unity of the current Argentine squad under coach Lionel Scaloni.
