For years, Messi carried the burden of an entire nation on his shoulders. Despite achieving everything in football, from individual accolades to team trophies, he faced harsh criticism from fans and media in Argentina for his repeated failures on the international stage. Messi was a player who had a hefty impact on this sport.
Between 2007 and 2016, Messi lost four major finals with Argentina, including three Copa América finals (2007, 2015, and 2016) and one World Cup final in 2014. These defeats not only affected his national image but also took a toll on him mentally. Messi opted for international retirement in 2016 after their defeat to Chile.
The Years of Heartbreak
After the 2016 Copa America final loss to Chile, which ended in a dramatic penalty shootout in which Messi skied a crucial penalty, Messi shocked the world by announcing his retirement from international football. Messi said: “I’ve tried everything. It hurts not to be a champion.” in the post-match interview. Messi’s decision came from a place deep in his heart. He truly wanted to win a trophy with his national team, but always missed out despite being so close. Messi had a legendary status at Barcelona, where he won La Liga, the Champions League, and countless individual awards, he couldn’t seem to find peace with his national team.
If the fans were supportive and behind him, there was no way he would retire. The criticism was at its peak. Many accused Messi of not being passionate, being more Catalan than Argentine, and not replicating his club form for his country. This ultimately affected his family, and he had to make this bold decision for his own good.
Later Messi opted to return from retirement and helped Argentina qualify for the 2018 World Cup after a crucial hat-rick against Ecuador. Unfortunately, this world cup was a failure for the Albicelestes.
A Turning Point
The year of 2021 was a turning point for La Pulga. The Copa America 2021, was held in Brazil under strict COVID-19 protocols, another shot for redemption. This year this team looked like a proper force around Messi, with his leadership. This was the year when Messi finally lifted a major trophy with his country. Leading the tournament in goals and assists, Messi played with fire, emotion, and leadership rarely seen.
For Messi, it was more than just a trophy. It was redemption. There was no stopping for the Argentine after this. Argentina later won the Finalismia trophy against Italy, adding another to Messi’s glorious cabinet.
In the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar, Messi shook hands with Paradise. He completed the unfinished job of the 2014 World Cup. A young Messi who was one goal away completed football. Argentina again won the Copa America in 2024. Messi became an international success of fraud. Now he is given the respect by the Argentine that he deserves.
Rejuvenated Messi
After the International success, Messi seemed free. He looked more joyful, happy, and relaxed on the field. Though his spell with PSG was not the best, his international triumph had given him a new perspective.
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