New Delhi: Argentine star Lionel Messi has not yet announced his plans to retire, but he is gearing up for what could be his home match in Argentina jersey
in a World Cup qualifier. The 38-year-old star himself described the upcoming clash against Venezuela as “very, very special” following Inter Miami’s win over Orlando City that secured their place in the Leagues Cup final.
Argentina are already guaranteed a spot in next year’s World Cup and will host Venezuela next Thursday at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. Their final qualifier will take place on September 9 in Ecuador but Messi has hinted that this home fixture could mark his last appearance in front of local fans.
“This match is very special to me,” Messi said. “My family will be there- my wife, children, parents and siblings. We’re going to live it like that. I don’t know what will happen after but this one is important.”
Messi’s comments ahead of the fixture have sparked excitement across Argentina, with fans eager to witness the eight-time Ballon d’Or in what could be a historic farewell. South America’s football governing body, CONMEBOL, highlighted he significance of the match on social media, posting a tribute to Messi with the words, “the last dance is coming.”
Se viene el último baile 🥲🇦🇷#EliminatoriasSudamericanas pic.twitter.com/jAEjo67NWL
— CONMEBOL.com (@CONMEBOL) August 28, 2025
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has also seen the commercial potential of the occasion, adjusting ticket prices for the monumental event. The cheapest tickets now cost $100, while premium seats are priced around $500, reflecting the magnitude of Messi’s likely final performance on home soil.
Looking ahead
While Messi has not confirmed his retirement, he has indicated he plans to step away from the national team after the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina will defend the title they claimed in Qatar in 2022. The qualifiers for the 2030 tournament won’t begin until 2027, by which time Messi will be 40, making this year’s matches potentially the final chapter of his international career.
For fans, next Thursday’s game against Venezuela is more than just a qualifier as it’s a chance to celebrate a career that has defined a generation of football. Messi’s presence on the pitch, with family and fans watching, promises a memorable and emotional evening at the Monumental.
