Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi is approaching the final years of his career, with talk of the Argentine becoming a manager swirling around.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been tipped to make the move to the touchline for some time, with Messi once rumored to be in the run-in to become FC Barcelona manager to replace Xavi Hernandez at the start of the year.
With Messi’s contract at Inter Miami lasting until 2026, there’s still some time for the former PSG forward to decide what he wants to do once he retires from soccer, with a manager position something that could appeal to the Argentine.
However, Messi already knows how he feels about this prospect during his non-playing days.
Messi reveals he ‘wouldn’t like’ to be a manager after retiring
Speaking to 433, Messi said he can’t picture himself becoming a manager once he’s done with soccer and Inter Miami, though the 37-year-old admitted he still isn’t sure what he’ll be when he’s finished with his playing career.
With Messi the most successful player in the history of soccer and one of the most famous people on the planet, the Inter Miami star’s next career move will be interesting for all to see, especially with the veteran uncertain about his future for now.
Messi said when asked if he thinks he will become a manager after his playing career: “I wouldn’t like to be a coach. But, I’m not clear on what I’ll be. I only think about playing and having fun. Let people remember me however they want.
“I’m grateful for the career I have had and fulfilled my dream of winning a World Cup, which I fought so hard for and cost so much. I was lucky to win with Barcelona and with Argentina, and I have a beautiful family. I’m grateful to God. I always choose family.”
What careers have Messi’s former teammates taken?
With Messi the greatest to ever play the game, it’s only natural that the Argentine has played alongside other soccer legends who since retiring have opted to take different career paths.
Former Barcelona teammates Xavi, Javier Mascherano and Cesc Fabregas have all taken the traditional path into coaching, with Gerard Pique and Carles Puyol moving into punditry and other business ventures.
Indeed, Messi will have the freedom to do what he wants once his playing days are over, yet with management out of the equation, the attacker could well step away from soccer entirely once he hangs up his boots.