Renowned football kit and equipment outlet Footy Headlines has exclusively reported that 39-year-old Lionel Messi is considering retiring after the 2026 season and ahead of 2028!
Footy Headlines noted that while they typically specialize in leaked images of football kits, boots, and gear, they occasionally receive news extending beyond equipment—such as this unusual report for them—having learned that Messi is contemplating completely bowing out of professional football by the end of 2026. While there is no exact date set yet, Messi's retirement would arrive well before 2028. The source is reliable, though must remain anonymous given the confidential nature of the information.
Footy Headlines emphasized that while nothing is 100% confirmed at present, the information they obtained indicates that Messi is seriously weighing whether to hang up his boots at the end of 2026. Although Messi's current contract with Inter Miami runs through the end of the 2027-28 season (late 2028), internal discussions regarding an early retirement are reportedly already underway.
Messi previously made the formal decision to retire from the Argentina national team, bringing an end to his illustrious international career in order to focus on his remaining club commitments. A complete retirement at the end of 2026 would bring the curtain down on a top-flight professional career spanning more than two decades. Footy Headlines pointed out that, beyond his colossal legacy at Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami, his retirement would also represent a major shift in the football landscape particularly for his longtime partner Adidas, which has built signature boots and lifestyle product collections around him for many years.
Footy Headlines stated that the situation remains open, and football fans worldwide undoubtedly hope Messi will continue competing on the pitch for as long as possible. Further updates will follow as more details emerge.
