“I want to enjoy a couple more matches as world champion”: Messi

Doha, Qatar | Xinhua | Lionel Messi could extend his international career beyond the 2022 FIFA World Cup, revealing a desire to once again wear the Argentina shirt as a world champion.

Messi previously said that the tournament in Qatar would be his last appearance on football’s biggest stage and many expected the 35-year-old to end his international career after he led Argentina to a penalty shootout victory over France in Sunday’s final.

“Obviously I wanted to complete my career with this – I can’t ask for more,” said Messi, who was playing in his fifth World Cup. “Finishing my career this way is impressive. After this, what else? I have a Copa America, a World Cup, almost at the very end.

“I love football, what I do. I enjoy being part of the national team, the group. I want to enjoy a couple more matches being a world champion.”

Messi scored twice in the final and converted his spot-kick in the shootout to take his tournament goal tally to seven.

He was recognized for his sublime performances in Qatar by winning a second World Cup Golden Ball, awarded to the tournament’s best player.

The Albiceleste captain also won the award at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where Argentina lost the final to Germany after an extra time goal from Mario Gotze.