Argentina is actually still a very strong team. They are still dependent on Messi but they also still have a lot of other strong players. I wonder how Argentina will play. Would they then return to play for Messi as Barcelona did for years before his departure? Maybe you should give those players a little more freedom. They can beat anyone on paper at this tournament. In 2014 they were already 2nd in the world, but they could also have become world champions. They are not among the top favorites, but they are not among the outsiders either. I think they are just at the sub top behind 4-5 countries.
Argentina is a great time with a fantastic player. But Brazil is even better as an overall team.
I'm sure Argentina will end up doing a great job in this world cup, but it will all depend on Messi to see if they actually end up winning the tournament. It would be an epic end to his career.
On the flip side, if Argentina doesn't win the world cup, Messi will end up retiring without ever winning the world cup, something that Maradona did.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has stated that the Qatar 2022 World Cup will be his last tournament.
The lively Paris Saint-Germain forward will be seeking the title for the first time after helping his country win the Copa America last year.
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner is surprised that Argentina are the clear favorites to win the game. At the Lusail Stadium on November 22, Argentina will face Saudi Arabia to kick off their championship campaign. After that, they will face Mexico and Poland.
I have this feeling that he might still be back at the next World Cup, but in a different position
It is very likely that he is not going to play another World Cup, but looking at it realistically, what else should he answer? Perhaps he stays incredibly healthy, extends his contract and still performs for PSG and the fans want him, how will he decide then?
I think we should appreciate that he will be around for one more World Cup and then it is about following from season to season like we do with Ronaldo. They choose different ways to communicate, but I think Messi's way is less confrontative and might some day turn out to be beneficial.