Former Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi, now playing his club football for Inter Miami in the MLS, has revealed when he will hang up his boots.
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With injuries having limited his involvement in Inter Miami's pre-season and disrupted his start to the 2024 MLS campaign, causing him to miss Argentina's two friendlies this month, there are concerns the 36-year-old's playing days are approaching an end.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said goodbye to European football in 2023, marking the end of his career at the highest level, although he does still plan to represent his country at the 2024 Copa America.
In a recent interview, Messi addressed his future in football, admitting he will call it a day when he believes he is no longer able to maintain a high standard.
"I know that the moment I feel that I am no longer able to perform, that I no longer enjoy (playing) or (can) help my teammates, I will quit," he told Big Time.
"I'm very self-critical of myself, I know when I'm good, when I'm bad, when I'm playing well and when I'm playing badly.
"When I feel it's time to take that step, I'll take it without thinking about age. If I feel good, I'll always try to keep competing because it's what I like and I know how to do."
LALIGA's all-time top goalscorer continued by suggesting retirement is not something he is thinking about too much yet.
"Today I try to enjoy the day-to-day, the moments, without thinking about life after (football)," he added.
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"I'm not sure about anything yet, I hope to keep playing for a while longer, which is what I like to do. When the time comes, I will surely find a way to fulfil myself and do what I like, and (find) a new role."
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