Messi: I'm aware I went to a lesser league but there's a lot personal reasons

Messi on MLS move: I'm aware I went to a lesser league

Lionel Messi has said he is aware he took a step down in competition when he moved to MLS this summer.

The Argentina superstar left PSG to join Inter Miami in a landmark deal for the North American league, quickly making a huge impact as he led the Herons to a League Cup title while scoring in every game in the competition.

After winning the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, Messi has continued to be a key part of his national team following his move to MLS. Messi said prior to the 2022 World Cup that it would be his last, but has since signaled he is open to continuing on through the 2026 edition in North America.

In an interview with Star+, Messi spoke about his future with Argentina, admitting that his playing level could be affected by his move to MLS.

“I said it several times and it is a reality: I will always try to compete to the maximum and I am the first to know when I can be there [with Argentina] and when I can’t,” the 36-year-old said. “I am also aware that I went to a lesser league, but a lot happens for personal reasons.

Though he admitted he wanted to be at the 2026 World Cup “more than ever,” Messi will be 39 by then. As such, the Inter Miami star said he is only looking ahead to the 2024 Copa América next summer.

“As long as I feel that I’m fine and I can continue contributing, I’m going to do it,” he said. “Today the only thing I think about is getting to the Copa América well and being able to compete in it. Fighting for it again like we always have, trying to be champions.

“I’m going to arrive at an age that I normally wouldn’t be able to play in the World Cup. I said that I don’t think I’m going to be there. It seemed that after the World Cup I was