Barco: everyone expects Messi to continue, but I play in the World Cup final

Boat: everyone expects Messi to continue, but I play in the World Cup final

According to Championat.

Context

Ezequiel Barco, currently at Spartak Moscow, has stood out as a promising player and could be a key player for Argentina in the 2026 World Cup. His opinion of Messi reflects not only his personal admiration, but also that of many players and fans who recognize the star's importance in the history of Argentine football.

Why this matters

Ezequiel Barco's statement about Lionel Messi resonates deeply among Argentine fans, especially after the recent defeat in the 2026 World Cup final. The possibility of Messi withdrawing from the national team generates a mix of sadness and gratitude, considering his historic contribution to Argentine football. The 2026 World Cup may be remembered not only for the team's performance, but also as a milestone in the career of one of the greatest players of all time.

Main conclusions

• Boat: everyone expects Messi to continue, but I'm playing in the World Cup final.
• Ezequiel Barco commented on the possibility of Messi remaining in the Argentine national team, stating that the World Cup final was his last game for the country.
• Barko: все ждут, что Месси продолжит, но матч в финале ЧМ был последним за сборную.

Argentine midfielder Ezequiel Barco, who currently plays for Spartak Moscow, made a controversial statement about Lionel Messi's future in the Argentine national team. In a conversation with journalist Ilia Nikulnikov, Barco expressed his conviction that Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final may have been Messi's last game for the national team. "I think the game in the World Cup final against Spain was probably Messi's last for the national team. Of course, everyone hopes he can continue. But I believe he has done enough. He is the best player in history," said Barco, demonstrating the sadness and admiration that many have for the Argentine star. Messi, who at 39 years old, had a prominent participation in the 2026 World Cup, playing a total of eight matches, where he scored eight goals and made four assists. His career with the Argentine national team is full of achievements and records, but expectations surrounding his future are uncertain, especially after a final that did not go as expected for the team. The pain of the defeat is shared by many fans and players, and Barco emphasized this feeling: "Of course we are all very upset, it's a shame. But it was probably his last game." This statement not only reflects the player's perception, but also that of many fans who have followed Messi throughout his career. The 2026 World Cup was a tournament full of emotions for Argentina, which reached the final, but ended up being overcome by the Spanish team in a dramatic match. Now, with the possibility of Messi leaving the national team, fans are wondering what the team's future will be like without their biggest star. The speculationsabout Messi's retirement from the national team could increase in the coming days, as the football world adapts to this new reality. Meanwhile, Barco and other players of the new generation will have the responsibility of continuing the legacy left by Messi, who, regardless of his decision, will always be remembered as an icon of world football.

What happens next

With expectations surrounding Messi's future in the national team, Argentina will need to prepare for a new phase, regardless of the star's decision. Ezequiel Barco, who is on the rise at Spartak, could play a crucial role in the team's transition. The Argentine National Team will face new challenges as it prepares for the next competitions, seeking to maintain the legacy left by Messi and other football icons.