New Delhi, Aug. 8 -- Argentina Football Association president Claudio "Chiqui" Tapia has made it clear that Lionel Messi's future on the pitch remains entirely in the superstar's own hands. Speaking on Argentine television shortly after the national team's run at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Tapia refused to place any pressure on the all-time great.

"It's a decision that is purely and personally his," Tapia said. "You have to let him relax. In 2022, we didn't know if he'd play in 2026. He said it was game by game, and I think we've seen a great version. if not the best. of Leo in a World Cup."

Argentina reached the final of the FIFA World Cup 2026 but fell 1-0 to Spain in extra time last month. Despite the heartbreaking end, Lionel Messi's ...