‘I am no longer enjoying myself’ – Lionel Messi opens up on retirement plan

Picture of Arinze Esomnofu

Arinze Esomnofu

Arinze Esomnofu is a Nigerian sports journalist, betting analyst and digital growth specialist with over a decade of experience in sports media and SEO. He is the editor of SportsBuddy and founder of Naija Punters, one of Nigeria's leading tipster communities. Arinze has led growth and content teams at Pulse Sports, FlashScore and North Star Network, and he writes data-driven match previews, betting guides and player features covering the Premier League, European football and Nigerian players at home and abroad.
Lionel Messi opens up on retirement plan. Pelumi

In a recent interview, World Cup winner Lionel Messi shared insights into his future retirement plans.

At 36 years old, Lionel Messi defied both age and critics by securing a World Cup victory with Argentina last year, alongside clinching his eighth Ballon d’Or title.

Credit: Getty
Messi wins the World Cup with Argentina Getty

This achievement solidified his position ahead of his greatest rival, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Lionel Messi’s retirement plan

During an episode of the Big Time Podcast, Messi conveyed his preparedness to retire from the game when he sense he can no longer maintain peak performance or find joy in playing, irrespective of his age.

Lionel Messi. Credit: Marca
Lionel Messi. Credit: Marca

“I am very self-critical of myself, I know when I’m good, when I’m bad, when I play well and when I play badly.

When I feel it’s time to take that step, I will take it without thinking about age,” Messi said, as per Marca.

“I know that moment I feel I am no longer ready to perform, that I am no longer enjoying myself or helping my teammates.”, he added.

Messi has netted five goals and delivered two assists in five matches for Inter Miami this season.

Lionel messi celebrates his goal with teammates. Credit: Al Jazeera
Messi celebrates his goal in Inter Miami. Credit: Al Jazeera

Meanwhile Sports Buddy revealed a video of Lionel Messi’s response to fans taunting him with Cristiano Ronaldo chants.

WhatsApp
Twitter
Telegram
Facebook

You Might Also Like