Lionel Messi is set to play his final match for Argentina on what will be his 208th appearance, bidding an emotional farewell in a friendly against Benin at the Monumental in Buenos Aires. The Inter Miami star announced his retirement from the national team in August, stating he had nothing more to give after the World Cup final defeat. His club career continues, with his contract reviewed annually through the 2028 season.
Beyond playing, Messi is building a football portfolio. He recently acquired CD Eldense in Spain's second division and UE Cornella in the fifth tier, aiming to establish them in La Liga through trusted advisors. In Uruguay, he and Luis Suarez founded Deportivo LSM, though promotion ambitions have cooled.
With Inter Miami, he will receive shares upon retirement, ruling out a franchise of his own. While a return to Newell's Old Boys has been discussed, his focus remains on Europe and Miami, with his family settled in Castelldefels.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing