Lionel Messi has fuelled speculation that he could be nearing the end of his illustrious playing career after posting a cryptic message on social media just hours before Argentina’s FIFA World Cup final against Spain.
The 39-year-old captain is set to lead Argentina at MetLife Stadium as the defending champions chase a second consecutive World Cup title, a feat not achieved since Brazil retained the trophy in 1962.
Messi has been instrumental in Argentina’s march to the final, scoring eight goals and providing four assists.
He has also contributed directly in every match of the tournament, underlining his importance to the team.
The Argentine legend recently became the tournament’s all-time leading scorer before being overtaken by France’s Kylian Mbappe, who now leads the standings with 22 World Cup goals.
A second World Cup triumph would further strengthen Messi’s legacy after lifting the trophy for the first time in Qatar in 2022.
However, attention has shifted from the final itself to a message Messi shared on Instagram. Alongside a photo of the adidas boots he plans to wear against Spain, he wrote: “What a journey we’re having together.”
Fans quickly noticed the words “El Ultimo Tango” inscribed on the boots.
The Spanish phrase, which translates to “The Last Tango,” is widely interpreted as a symbolic reference to a farewell performance, prompting fresh speculation that retirement could be on the horizon.
Before the tournament began, adidas had also indicated that the 2026 World Cup would likely be Messi’s final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Although the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has not officially announced his future plans, the latest message has intensified debate over whether he is preparing to bring his remarkable career to a close.
Messi has enjoyed one of the most decorated careers in football history, winning 40 major trophies at club level with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami.
He has also claimed four senior international titles with Argentina.
The forward has scored 125 goals in 206 appearances for his national team and boasts an extraordinary career tally of 919 goals, cementing his place among the greatest footballers of all time.
