Former Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit has predicted that Argentina captain Lionel Messi will hang up his boots after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, effectively ending his illustrious career in professional football.
Petit also dismissed growing speculation linking the Inter Miami forward with a potential return to Barcelona, citing the emergence of young talent at the Catalan club.
"Lionel Messi has been linked with a loan back to Barcelona, but Lamine Yamal isn't going to be on the bench," Petit told EscapistMagazine. "Messi could play in the No. 10, but we know that he doesn't run and can Barcelona control the midfield?"
The Frenchman was categorical in his assessment of the situation: "There's no way we'll see Messi back at Barcelona. I wish him the best in getting to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and I think then he'll retire."
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, departed Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain several years ago after the Spanish giants were unable to offer him a new contract due to financial constraints. He currently plies his trade with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner continues to perform at a high level for both club and country despite being in the twilight of his career. His potential participation in the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, would mark his sixth appearance in football's premier international tournament.
Petit's comments suggest that the tournament could serve as the perfect swansong for the Argentine maestro, who finally claimed World Cup glory with his nation in Qatar 2022 after several near misses in previous editions.
Meanwhile, Barcelona has begun its post-Messi era with promising young talents like Lamine Yamal stepping into the spotlight, indicating the club is focused on building for the future rather than revisiting its glorious past.
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