(๐) People close to Messi say he never took playing World Cup 2026 for granted. After winning the World Cup in 2022, he honestly believed that was the end of his World Cup career.
As the tournament got closer, Messi wanted to prove something to himself: that he was still capable of making the difference for Argentina at the highest level. The people around him thought that was crazy that Messi needed to prove himself.
For Messi, though, it wasnโt about his reputation or everything he had done in the past. He wanted to earn his place in the squad based on his current level and performances.
In the end, Messiโs goal was simple: to prove that he still had what it takes to lead Argentina on the biggest stage.
At Inter Miami CF, everything has been focused on helping Messi stay in top shape as he approaches 39 years old. Argentinaโs physio, Walter Insaurralde, also works with him there. Messi has followed a strict training program with strength work, sprint exercises, and fitness training to keep his body at its best. @TheAthleticFC ๐จ๐ฆ๐ท
Linda Cohn, who has anchored more editions of SportsCenter than anyone in ESPN history, will be retiring from ESPN on June 30. Cohn, who was honored in 2016 for hosting her 5,000th edition of SportsCenter, will make her final appearances on ESPN during the 6 p.m., 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. ET editions on Friday, June 26.
In 2016, Messi retired from the Argentina national team after heartbreakingly losing the Copa Amรฉrica final, his fourth major final loss with his country.
10 years later, heโs a 2x Copa Amรฉrica champion, a World Cup champion and now the all-time menโs top World Cup scorer.
What a turn around in his international career ๐
๐จ Lionel Messi is expected to make an appearance in a Barcelona shirt ๐ข๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ง ๐ง๐๐ ๐ before retiring with Inter Miami.
Inter Miami are in talks to face Barcelona in the Joan Gamper Trophy, with plans being discussed for the Argentine to feature in the match.
Messi could play one half for each club if the fixture is agreed, creating a symbolic farewell appearance for Barcelona.
(Source: @elnacionalcat)