Lionel Messi has spoken publicly for the first time since Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain. The 39-year-old expressed deep disappointment while congratulating the winners.
Messi posted on Instagram after Argentina fell to an extra-time goal from Ferran Torres at MetLife Stadium. He described the pain as immense and said the wound would take time to heal.
The forward praised his teammates for reaching two consecutive finals and uniting the country. He also noted Argentina's return to the elite level of world football.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni told Ole he had not spoken with Messi since the match. Scaloni said he plans to fulfill his contract through December before deciding his future.
Messi finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists. At 39 years and 25 days he became the oldest outfield player to appear in a World Cup final.
