ANKARA: Lionel Messi told the Argentina press on Sunday that he does not intend to retire yet.
Speaking to Argentine television Tyc Sports after winning the World Cup, Messi shared his joy.
“Obviously, I wanted to end my career with this. I can’t ask for anything anymore. Thank God he gave me everything. Ending my career like this, it’s impressive.”
The 35-year-old added that he wants to continue to play for the national team.
“I love football, what I do. I enjoy being on the national team with the group and I want to continue playing a few more games as a world champion.”
Messi-led Argentina bagged their third FIFA World Cup title by defeating France on penalties in the final on Sunday.
Pele congratulates Messi, Mbappe
Brazilian legend Pele has congratulated Argentina and their superstar Lionel Messi for winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and French star Kylian Mbappe for scoring four goals in the final.
“Today, football continues to tell its story, as always, in an enthralling way,” the 82-year-old wrote on Instagram. “Messi winning his first World Cup, as his trajectory deserved.”
“Congratulations Argentina! Certainly Diego is smiling now,” he added, referring to the late Argentine football legend and his once greatest rival, Diego Armando Maradona.
Pele also praised Mbappe.
“My dear friend, Mbappe, scoring four goals in a final. What a gift it was to watch this spectacle to the future of our sport,” he wrote.
He also reserved special praise for Morocco, which became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semifinal.
“And I couldn’t fail to congratulate Morocco for the incredible campaign. It’s great to see Africa shine,” Pele said.
Pele, who helped Brazil win three World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970, is Brazil’s leading scorer with 77 goals in 92 matches for his country and is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. (Anadolu)
Lionel Messi
Source: Philippines News Agency
