Argentine football star Lionel Messi warned fans and journalists alike he knows he hasn’t got much left in the tank. “I enjoy everything a lot more, because I’m aware the finish line is closer and closer.” The Qatar 2022-winner opened up about his future in football with sports media outlet ESPN and confirmed Inter Miami will be his last club.

“I’m not ready [to leave football], this is what I’ve done all my life,” Messi told the news outlet, in a preview of an exclusive interview he gave them. The World Cup hero first started playing football aged four in his native Rosario, before signing with Newell’s Old Boys in 1994.

The Argentine went on to add he still enjoys the daily life of a professional player, and training and games have been part of his regular schedule since he made his professional debut in October 2004, nearly 20 years ago.

“There’s always a bit of fear about when it will all end,” said Messi. “Leaving Europe behind and coming [to Miami] was difficult.” He first arrived in Spain aged 13, signing for FC Barcelona in 2001. “Becoming a world champion helped me see things differently. I don’t think about it, I just try to enjoy it.”

Asked if the Herons will be his last club, Messi agreed. “I’m having a good time at the club. I’m lucky to have good friends and teammates around, same as in the national team.” He has struggled with injuries since September 2023, when he felt some discomfort during a South American Qualifiers game playing for Argentina.

“I try to enjoy the little details, because I’ll miss that once I stop playing,” he said.