Argentine defender Nicolás Tagliafico opened up about Lionel Messi’s future and the uncertainty surrounding a possible return to FC Barcelona, admitting that “no one will be ready” when the Argentina captain finally decides to retire.

Speaking to Radio La Red while in camp with the national team ahead of their friendly against Angola, the Olympique Lyon full-back reflected on what Messi’s farewell will mean for football and the legacy he continues to build.

“When Leo Retires, No One Will Be Ready”

“He’s been playing with the national team for 20 years. It’s something completely out of the ordinary. No one will be ready for when Leo is no longer here. He’ll decide when to stop. Maybe when he retires, he’ll stay involved with the coaching staff or have some role within the national team,” Tagliafico said, hinting that Messi could remain connected to the Argentine Football Association (AFA) even after hanging up his boots.

The World Cup champion from Qatar 2022 also admitted that even within the national team’s locker room, there’s no talk about a timeline for Messi’s farewell:
“No one knows what he’ll do. He enjoys every moment with us and still makes a difference. When he decides to stop, it’s going to be really hard for everyone.”

Reaction to Messi’s Return to the Camp Nou

Messi’s surprise visit to the Spotify Camp Nou, which took place quietly and without prior notice to the club, caused a major stir among Barcelona’s staff and his former teammates. Tagliafico acknowledged that the news also caught the Argentine squad off guard:
“There was a big buzz after the photo at Camp Nou because it was such a surprise. I don’t know the exact situation, because of the Beckham Law and all that. He could go during the MLS break, but honestly, I don’t know what he’ll do. It’s not easy, especially with the World Cup so close. I don’t think it’s a simple decision.”

An Open Future Between Miami, Barcelona, and Argentina

Currently in his second year with Inter Miami, Messi is enjoying life without the demanding European schedule. Yet his recent social media post — where he admitted to “missing the place with all his soul” — reignited speculation about a potential return to Barcelona.

Meanwhile, inside the Argentine camp, caution and respect prevail. Players like Tagliafico understand the weight of the moment:
“When Leo is gone, football will feel it like never before. No one can imagine Argentina without him.”