Now 37 and reaching the end of an unrivalled career, Lionel Messi has spoken out about the possibility of him switching the pitch for the dugout

Lionel Messi has claimed he ‘wouldn’t like’ to be a coach when his illustrious career eventually comes to an end.

The great Argentinian scored in every stage to finally lift his Holy Grail at the 2022 World Cup, ticking off the final box of a career that has sent shivers down the spines of defenders for two decades.

Now the headline act of Major League Soccer, Messi has shown little sign of slowing down. He netted a pair of hat-tricks within a week last month for Argentina and Inter Miami – who the 37-year-old admitted would likely be where his playing days come to an end. For now, he’s happy to continue plying his trade for David Beckham’s club.

Yet, despite the fact he is yet to rule himself out of the 2026 World Cup, Messi’s legendary tenure will have its final chapter read soon – though there’ll be no itch to switch to the touchline if the man himself is to be believed.

“I wouldn’t like to be a coach,” Messi told 433 when asked about his career post-retirement. “But, I’m not clear on what I’ll be. I only think about playing and having fun.”

Pushing 40 and taking on a reduced workload in Miami, Messi’s days at the top of world football will soon be numbered, and the Argentinian wishes for people to remember him for his exploits as a player.

“Let people remember me however they want,” Messi added. “I’m grateful for the career I have had and fulfilled my dream of winning a World Cup, which I fought so hard for and cost so much. I was lucky to win with Barcelona and with the National Team, and I have a beautiful family. I’m grateful to God. I always choose family.”

Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo have three sons: Thiago, Mateo and Ciro – all of whom seem to have taken after their iconic father and are enamoured by the game.

“We are always with the ball,” Messi continued, speaking about his children. “Whether in a match or playing PlayStation. Some are more ‘hot-headed’ than others; sometimes I give them advice, and they also give me advice.” The 37-year-old and his household have moved around in recent years, leaving their beloved home in Barcelona for a slightly unenjoyable stint in Paris upon Messi’s singing for PSG. Now, however, the superstar has admitted that the US is bountiful with success both off and on the field.

“There is a lot of passion here in the United States, something I didn’t know,” Messi admitted. “I knew they had it for basketball, baseball or American football, but they are very passionate about football as well; the stadiums are always full.

“I’ve changed my style of play because of the moment, the situation and my age. I’m adapting to everything. I started to reinvent myself and adapt to the league, which was new to me. I felt very comfortable from the beginning.

“To build a club, you have to win titles. The club was coming off a bad year in MLS [in 2023] and shortly after I arrived we won the Leagues Cup, the first trophy for the club.

“It was extraordinary for us, and now we’re looking forward to playing in these playoffs and hopefully winning the MLS Cup. On a personal level and most importantly for the club that has done so much to make this happen.”