Lionel Messi Retirement: The Stunning Post-Football Plan No One Expected

Lionel Messi Retirement Era Begins: From Iconic Player to Powerful Visionary

Lionel Messi, the legendary captain who led Argentina to the FIFA World Cup title, does not see himself as a coach after retirement. In an interview, Messi revealed that he never wants to be a coach, although he doesn’t dislike the idea of ​​being a team manager. However, he would prefer to own a football club. The record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said, “In the future, I want to create my own football club that will nurture young players from the grassroots level and take them to the international stage. I want children to have the basic facilities necessary to become better football players.”

Lionel Messi Retirement Could Change Football Forever — Here’s Why

The Argentinian captain shared his future plans in an interview, expressing his desire to mentor young players. While the news of his potential retirement has disappointed millions of fans, he won’t be doing so anytime soon. This is because the new Major League Soccer season starts next month, on February 21st, and the FIFA World Cup is also later this year, so Messi will once again showcase his magic. Regarding his net worth, Messi’s total net worth is 7641 crore rupees. He earned 1213 crore rupees in 2025. Messi scored 29 goals for Inter Miami in the 2025 season.

Sudden changes are not welcome.

Amidst news of Lionel Messi retirement, he said, “I don’t like sudden changes, and they upset my mood.” Messi said, “My routine is well-organized, but if I have to make sudden changes to it, I don’t like it. My wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, understands this, and she tries her best to ensure there aren’t too many changes to my routine.” Messi also said that he prefers to be alone.

Messi has stepped into Uruguay’s fourth division league alongside Luis Suárez.

according to Lionel Messi retirement plan Messi has taken his first step towards becoming a football club owner. He has teamed up with his former Barcelona and current Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez to launch Deportivo LSM, a team in the Uruguayan fourth division football league. He and Suárez are co-owners of the club, and the club’s name is derived from the first letters of their names.

Messi also launched the cup.

before Lionel Messi retirement- Messi recently launched the Messi Cup, an under-16 tournament. Eight academy teams from around the world participated in this tournament. The inaugural Messi Cup, held in December, was won by River Plate, who defeated Atlético Madrid in the final.

Not social media friendly, I don’t understand it.

The Argentinian captain also stated that he is not social media friendly and doesn’t understand AI tools like ChatGPT. Messi said that he has never used artificial intelligence.

All focus on football now

However, Messi also clarified that his entire focus is currently on football. Besides extending his contract with Inter Miami, he could also represent Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the team will be defending its title.

1. Has Lionel Messi announced his retirement?

No, Lionel Messi has not officially announced his retirement yet. However, recent interviews and reports suggest he is thinking seriously about life after football, which has sparked widespread discussion among fans and analysts.

2. What does Lionel Messi want to do after retirement?

Instead of becoming a coach, Messi is reportedly interested in becoming a football club owner. He wants to stay connected to the game through leadership, long-term planning, and youth development rather than daily coaching responsibilities.

3. Why doesn’t Lionel Messi want to become a coach?

Messi has always been a quiet, reserved personality. Coaching involves constant media interaction, tactical pressure, and touchline intensity—roles that may not suit his natural temperament and lifestyle preferences.

4. Will Lionel Messi own a football club?

While nothing is officially confirmed, reports suggest Messi could invest in or own a football club, possibly linked to MLS or youth-focused football projects, allowing him to shape the sport from behind the scenes.

5. How could Lionel Messi retirement impact football?

Messi’s retirement will mark the end of an era. His move into club ownership could redefine how legendary players influence football, shifting from on-field brilliance to off-field leadership and vision.

6. When is Lionel Messi expected to retire?

There is no confirmed retirement date. Messi has indicated that he is taking his career one season at a time, focusing on fitness, motivation, and enjoyment of the game.