Lionel Messi has admitted he's close to the end of his Argentina career after scoring a hat-trick and grabbing two assists against Bolivia.
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Messi dazzles in Argentina winInvolved in five goalsSpeaks about his future after the gameFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Argentina's captain was back in the starting XI for the national team against Bolivia and put in a vintage display in a 6-0 win in World Cup qualifying. The Inter Miami superstar had a hand in five goals and finished the night with the match ball after securing his 10th international hat-trick.
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Messi turned 37 in June and is heading towards the end of his dazzling career. The World Cup winner has already admitted he believes that Inter Miami will be his last club and now says he's into his final matches on the international scene.
WHAT MESSI SAID
Messi told reporters: "It is very nice to play here feeling the affection of the Argentina fans. It makes me emotional to listen how they shout my name. We all enjoy this connection with the fans and we love playing at home."
The 37-year-old then spoke about his future with the national team, adding: "I didn't set any date or deadline about my future. I'm just enjoying all this. I am more emotional than ever and taking all the love from the people because I know these can be my last games.
"It's a joy to be present and appreciate this moment. Being surrounded by younger teammates, given my age, makes me feel like a kid again. I find myself doing silly things because I feel so comfortable. As long as I maintain that feeling and can continue contributing to the team, I plan to be here enjoying [the national team]."
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR MESSI
Messi is now set to return to club side Inter Miami but will hope to be back in Argentina colours in November against Paraguay and Peru. It's still not known when Messi will decide to hang up his famous boots but he's clearly savouring every moment right now and remains a vital player for the reigning world champions.
