Lionel Messi’s move to the United States could prove to be a masterstroke if he leads Argentina to consecutive World Cup titles.
The 38-year-old joined Inter Miami in 2023, a decision that boosted soccer’s profile in the US, helped his club win trophies and added another chapter to his legendary career. Argentina could be the biggest beneficiary, with Messi still performing at an extraordinary level.
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“Leo will be the best for as long as he wants; he has been doing it every single match for the last 20 years,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said.
After scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria, former France star Thierry Henry said Messi was “on the moon”. The feat was Messi’s first World Cup hat-trick and took him level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose on 16 goals as the tournament’s top scorer.
Messi said he prepared himself physically to remain useful for the team. Despite earlier suggesting the 2022 World Cup could be his last, he remains Argentina’s main creative force.
His move to Inter Miami reduced his workload compared with his Barcelona years, helping him stay fresh. Messi’s 2022 World Cup triumph after leaving Barcelona proved his decision beneficial, and he continues to inspire teammates as Argentina aim for another title.