Lionel Messi, forward and captain of Inter Miami and the Argentina national team, addressed the question of what continues to motivate him to play football at the age of 38.
I love to compete, I love to play. It's what I've loved since I was a kid, and I still enjoy the game throughout my life. I still feel the same passion - I want to participate, help the team and play my best. Every time I go out on the field, I want to win. I'm a competitor, I try to convey that feeling to my teammates, and as long as I feel good and physically at a high level, I'll keep playing.
Inter Miami are currently competing in the MLS playoffs. The American club is set to play a decisive third match against Nashville SC for a spot in the next round of the tournament.
The Argentine has been playing for Inter Miami since 2023. His contract with the club runs through the end of December 2028.
This season, Lionel Messi has scored 35 goals and provided 18 assists in 38 matches across all competitions. According to Transfermarkt, the 38-year-old forward’s market value is estimated at €18 million.
Earlier, Lionel Messi was awarded the Golden Boot as the top scorer of the 2025 MLS regular season.
