Lionel Messi’s Remarkable Journey Since Retirement
In 2016, after a tough defeat to Chile in the Copa America final, Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football. He was devastated after missing a penalty in the shootout, marking Argentina’s fourth major final loss in just nine years. “For me, the national team is over,” he said, expressing his disappointment. “I’ve done all I can. It hurts not to be a champion.”
Fast forward to ten years later, just two days before turning 39, and it’s hard to believe not only is he still an integral part of the reigning world champions Argentina, but he has also emerged as the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer. His decision to return to international play sparked an impressive era for both Messi and his national team, leading them to victories in the past two Copa America tournaments and a glorious World Cup win in 2022. During that campaign, Messi scored seven goals, including two in the final, helping Argentina capture their first World Cup title since 1986.
On the same date that Diego Maradona scored twice against England in the quarter-finals 40 years prior, Messi again made headlines, this time by scoring both goals in a 2-0 win over Austria. “It was another immortal Messi moment,” commented BBC’s Steve Bower. Messi himself reflected on his enjoyment of the game: “I enjoy playing and having a good time on the pitch. We enjoy seeing people like this too, being able to give them this kind of joy.”
The Shift to Immortality
Despite a rocky start to his latest World Cup journey, including an early penalty miss, Messi quickly redeemed himself by scoring his 17th World Cup goal, surpassing Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the top scorer in history. His 18th goal followed shortly after, demonstrating his sheer skill as he maneuvered past defenders to find the net. “We don’t have time to create statues for Lionel Messi, nor to analyze him deeply in newspapers. We cannot keep pace,” remarked Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague.
Now with 18 goals in 28 World Cup appearances, breaking more records appears imminent, especially with games still to be played. Messi’s latest World Cup appearances have seen him rise to the occasion, creating numerous chances and scoring 13 tournament goals since his international retirement reversal, with an impressive track record that sees 12 of his 18 goals scored after turning 35.
As Balague noted, “He is enjoying it, and that’s the best part. In previous World Cups, he struggled, but now he knows his body well. He wins with intelligence rather than relying solely on speed.”
The Greatest of All Time?
Messi’s performances continue to astound football fans and analysts alike. He has scored all five of Argentina’s goals in the current World Cup and is leading the scoring charts. Against Austria, Messi joined an elite group of players by scoring in six consecutive World Cup matches, a feat only previously accomplished by France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho.
His efficiency remains unparalleled; he scored twice against Austria with both of his chances and has a history of involvement in 12 goals across his last six World Cup matches. “Are we witnessing the greatest player ever? It is certainly a conversation worth having,” reflected former Wales defender Ashley Williams.
With many observing that Argentina relies heavily on Messi’s magic, there are questions about whether other players can step up and contribute. However, Messi’s undeniable talent and influence remain a critical part of the team’s success.
Facing Imperfection
Even in moments of struggle, Messi maintains a record of resilience. Despite a missed penalty against Lautaro Martinez, he quickly rebounded by scoring twice, though he now holds the record for both the most penalties taken and missed in World Cup history. “Messi is human after all; he’s allowed to make mistakes,” acknowledged former England midfielder Danny Murphy.
As Messi embarks on setting new records, he also eyes the potential to become the World Cup’s all-time assist leader, currently tied with Maradona at eight assists. With more milestones on the horizon, his next opportunity will be against Jordan in the final group match.
Lionel Messi’s journey from retirement to redefining football legacies is nothing short of extraordinary, and as fans eagerly anticipate more moments of brilliance, it seems the carnival is far from over.