Lionel Messi’s unparalleled legacy continues to shine as he nears the final stages of his illustrious career. Recently, Argentina and Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul shared poignant insights about Messi’s journey, focusing on the forward’s lasting impact both on and off the pitch. At 38, Messi has already cemented his place as one of football’s greatest ever, having won everything imaginable. But as the end draws closer, his influence on future generations remains undeniable.
Lionel Messi’s impact on the world of football is simply immeasurable, a sentiment echoed by his teammates, coaches, and fans alike. At 38, the living legend is approaching the twilight of his storied career, with the prospect of retirement looming closer each day. The World Cup-winning forward has amassed a jaw-dropping 46 trophies, cementing himself as the most decorated player in football history. But according to fellow Argentina international and Inter Miami teammate, Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s greatest contribution might not even be his trophies.
Reflecting on Messi’s remarkable career during an emotional World Cup qualifier against Venezuela, De Paul, who now plays alongside Messi in the MLS, commented on the inevitability of the forward’s eventual departure. “He’s been coming here for 20 years, and the end is approaching. That’s life,” De Paul stated. “The best thing he’ll have left, when he decides not to come back anymore, is that he gave everything, won everything, and made a lot of people happy.”
This World Cup qualifier, which saw Messi score twice in a commanding 3-0 win for Argentina, may well have been his last on home soil as a member of La Albiceleste. Yet, despite nearing retirement, Messi shows no signs of slowing down. He remains fully committed to the national team, with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. However, as of now, Messi has not confirmed whether he will participate in the tournament.
De Paul’s words encapsulate what Messi has meant to millions around the world—not just as a footballer but as a leader and role model. Lautaro Martinez, another World Cup winner with Messi, added that it was an “emotional night” that would forever be remembered by those who witnessed it. “I’m not just talking about him as a footballer,” Martinez said. “It’s about his leadership, his daily lessons, and the person he is.”
Messi has now made 194 appearances for Argentina, scoring 114 goals, and while he has dominated the game for almost two decades, the next chapters of his career—whether in Argentina or at Inter Miami—are still unfolding. But as De Paul suggests, Messi’s legacy will ultimately be defined by much more than the trophies he’s collected; it’s about the joy he has brought to millions and the indelible mark he will leave on the sport.
