'We’ll know in a few months' Lionel Messi close friend gives verdict on Argentina legend's retirement plans

Lionel Messi's future is naturally the source of speculation as he prepares to captain Argentina at this summer's World Cup in North America.

Messi's contract at Inter Miami expires at the end of 2028, but the prospect of leading Argentina to back-to-back World Cup trophies would offer an enticing exit point for the legendary 38 year old (by which we mean he is both legendary and aged 38; he's not legendary for being 38).

Only two sides have ever retained the World Cup in the history of the competition: Italy in 1938, and Brazil in 1962.

Sergio Aguero gives insight into Lionel Messi retirement plans

Sergio Aguero knows Messi very well having played 90 games alongside him for Argentina, including playing together as youngsters in their country's under-20s side and winning Olympic gold medals in 2008.

Aguero believes that Messi will likely keep an open mind as to what his future holds - and that we may well know 'in a few months' what he decides.

Aguero told Stake: "Leo will do whatever he feels.

"[In] one year he will look at the contract. If he feels good physically, he’s happy and calm, he’ll continue very calmly.

"Obviously, knowing Leo, he is very competitive and he hates losing. But he is in a very beautiful city, very comfortable. Many Latinos love him and he feels that affection."

Aguero believes there is one decisive factor that will make up Messi's mind for him, though.

It is one that the former Manchester City striker knows well having been forced into retirement soon after making the move to Barcelona in 2021.

Aguero said: "I think it all depends on his physical condition. Looking at him today I think he can play calmly.

"If I were him I would stay here even if it’s only five minutes. But if he’s OK, we’ll know in a few months.

"After the World Cup and the MLS season he has one year left. I don’t think he’s thinking about what he will do in 2028."