Messi remembers Barcelona in his speech after final Argentina match on home soil | OneFootball

On Thursday night, Lionel Messi led Argentina to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Venezuela at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.

The former Barcelona captain and club legend scored a brilliant brace on the night in what could well have been his final official international match on home soil.

Messi reflects on time at Barcelona

Speaking to the media after the match, the record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was coy about his plans to play at the World Cup next year and also fondly recalled his past at Barcelona.

“There were a lot of emotions. I knew it was the last time here for the points. I experienced a lot of things on this pitch, good and not so good, but I’m keeping the best. I’m very happy. Being able to finish this way here is what I always dreamed of,” he said.

Later, looking back on his two decades at Barça, Messi remarked: “For many years I had the love in Barcelona, ​​and I still have it.”

Lionel Messi played his last match for Argentina on home soil. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)

Continuing, Messi stated how he sought the same love from the people in Argentina, remembering how the relationship was not always the best, but things were different now.

“My dream was to have it here, in my country, with my people. For several years, many things were discussed, but I’m left with all the good things we did with the group that tried and failed to make it,” he said.

“Then it came to me and a few others from that group. Everything we experienced was beautiful.”

Regarding his participation at the World Cup next year, Messi noted: “No, not that either… What I’ve been saying, game after game.”

When pointed out that there were only nine months for the tournament to get underway, he replied:

“The thing is, nine months go by very quickly, but at the same time, it’s a long time. We finish the season at the end of the year, and hopefully we can be MLS champions. Then preseason comes, and I’ll have six months left. I’ll see how I feel.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo