Lionel Messi provides major update on Argentina future

Lionel Messi has spoken after winning the World Cup with Argentina, confirming he has no plans to retire from international football just yet.

All eyes were on the 35-year-old heading into the tournament, with it set to be his last shot at winning the one trophy that has eluded him throughout his exceptional playing career.

Many predicted that no matter the outcome, the 2022 World Cup would be the last we see of Messi in the blue and white striped shirt of Argentina, with his career entering its final years.

But, after putting in a Player of the Match display to inspire Argentina to a win over France on penalties, Messi spoke to TyC sports after the match, discussing his future: "No, I'm not going to retire from the Argentina national team.

"I want to continue playing as a champion," he added, confirming that he would not be bowing out of international football despite the speculation.

While it remains incredibly unlikely that Messi will represent La Albiceleste at another World Cup, they will now have eyes on retaining the Copa America in 2024, which they will now hope Messi can be around for after proving key to their success in the tournament last year.

Messi's future has long been the subject of speculation, both internationally and at club level. He is out of contract at Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the current season, but has an option to extend his stay by a year.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said earlier in December that his contract situation would be discussed in January. 90min understands that MLS outfit Inter Miami remain in discussions with Messi's representatives over a potential transfer.