With Marca award in hand, Messi reflects on career success and what‍‍`s Next

Lionel Messi has achieved nearly every honor possible in his illustrious career, leaving little room for any feelings of unfulfillment regarding success.

Having turned 37 last June, questions about his current thoughts on his career have become increasingly common for the Argentine legend.

Recently, at the Chase Stadium in Miami, Messi spoke about his future plans while receiving the “America Legend” award from the Spanish media outlet Marca.

The award recognizes his remarkable achievement of winning a record 46 trophies in football history.

The presentation was made by Marca‍‍`s director Juan Ignacio Gallardo and Jorge Mas, one of the owners of Inter Miami.

During the event, Messi was asked what currently takes priority in his career, including discussions about his potential participation in the 2026 World Cup.

Messi made it clear that, at this stage of his career, maintaining happiness and good health takes priority over making decisions about the upcoming World Cup.

Following his recent hat-trick against Bolivia in World Cup qualifiers, he was also questioned about his future in the tournament. Messi remained noncommittal, stating, "These matches could be my last."

As the football world watches closely, it’s evident that Messi’s focus is on enjoying the present moment, rather than being consumed by the uncertainties of what lies ahead.

Receiving the Marca award yesterday, Lionel Messi expressed his unwillingness to make early decisions about his participation in the 2026 World Cup.

"Let‍‍`s see what happens. I don’t like to think too far ahead. I try to enjoy each day. I hope to continue playing at this level, feeling good and happy. When I get the opportunity to do what I love, that’s what makes me happy. This is more important to me than playing in the 2026 World Cup. I haven‍‍`t set a specific goal for the World Cup yet, but I’m focused on staying well day by day," he said.

According to Marca, Messi has won 46 trophies throughout his career, along with 56 individual awards.

However, ESPN’s count puts the Argentine superstar‍‍`s total trophy haul at 48.

When asked if he remembers the first trophy he ever won,

Messi replied, "I’ve seen pictures of the first trophy I won as a child, but I don’t remember it vividly. I’ve enjoyed football from a very young age. It’s my passion."

Lionel Messi has revealed that he doesn’t keep track of his trophies.

Reflecting on what it feels like to wear the Argentina jersey and why he is enjoying the present moment, the Inter Miami forward shared,

"A few days ago, at the Monumental Stadium during the Bolivia match, people were shouting my name and my teammates‍‍` names. I have experienced many tough times with Argentina, but I am grateful for the current moment. I’m enjoying it because time is running out."

Regarding his goals in Miami, Messi emphasized,

"I didn’t come here to retire. We came to build this team into something great through winning trophies, which we have done, and we are getting closer to achieving more."