Nobody Will Be Ready For Lionel Messi Retirement As Tagliafico Reflects On His Legacy And Argentina’s World Cup Mindset

Lionel Messi’s name has become more than football — it’s an emotion, a movement, and a symbol of brilliance that has defined generations. But according to Argentina teammate Nicolas Tagliafico, nobody will be ready for the day Messi finally hangs up his boots.

As speculation swirls about a possible short-term return to Barcelona, the Lyon defender shared his thoughts on Messi’s legacy, Argentina’s World Cup dreams, and how even his teammates are unsure what’s next for the Inter Miami superstar.

Tagliafico Reflects On Messi’s Legacy And Camp Nou Surprise

Few players understand Messi’s magic better than Nicolas Tagliafico. While preparing for Argentina’s friendly against Angola, the defender opened up about how emotional it is to even imagine football without Messi.

“He’s been playing in Argentina for 20 years. It’s completely unusual,” Tagliafico told Radio La Red. “Nobody will be prepared for when Leo is gone. He’ll decide when he’s no longer there. Maybe once he stops playing, he’ll stay with the coaching staff or take on a role with the national team.”

Messi’s recent visit to Barcelona’s newly renovated Camp Nou — shared in an emotional midnight post — reignited fan dreams of a fairytale comeback. The Inter Miami forward expressed how deeply he missed the club, leaving many wondering if he might pull off one final dance in Catalonia.

Even Tagliafico admits the Argentina squad was caught off guard by the viral photos. “There was a huge fuss about the photo he took at Camp Nou because it was a surprise,” he said. “I don’t know what the situation is. Maybe he could go during the MLS break, but honestly, I don’t know what he’ll do. It’s not easy, especially with the World Cup so close.”

Argentina’s World Cup Mindset — “We Have To Prove It Again”

Shifting focus to Argentina’s 2026 World Cup ambitions, Tagliafico struck a balance between humility and confidence.

“On a scale of 1 to 10, I think we’re about a five,” he said. “Not too little, not too much. We’re taking it one step at a time, just like we did in the last World Cup.”

He acknowledged Argentina’s fiery footballing culture — equal parts pride and passion. “We also seek it out, Argentinians, with that arrogance we have. Being world champions means we have to prove it, but that spice, that mischievousness, is part of who we are. People respect Argentina now. We earned it with effort.”

As Messi’s twilight years unfold, one thing remains clear — his impact transcends trophies. Whether he returns to Barcelona or stays in Miami, Messi’s story continues to inspire. And for Tagliafico and millions worldwide, the day he walks away will mark the end of an era no one will ever be ready for.