Lionel Messi returned to Argentina on Tuesday following his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arriving in his hometown of Rosario aboard a private jet before beginning a short vacation ahead of his return to Inter Miami.
The Argentine captain landed at Rosario International Airport after departing from Miami and traveled by SUV with tinted windows to his family’s residence in the exclusive neighborhood of Fisherton, without interacting with the fans who had gathered to welcome him.
According to local media, Messi will spend the next few days with his family before rejoining Inter Miami for the remainder of the MLS season.
Unlike many of his Argentina teammates, Messi did not return on the same flight that brought much of the national team delegation back to Buenos Aires on Monday. The squad was greeted by thousands of supporters upon arriving at Ezeiza International Airport before heading to the Argentine Football Association’s training complex.
Following Argentina’s 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, Messi shared an emotional message on Instagram.
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“The pain is enormous, and it will take time for this wound to heal,” the 39-year-old wrote after breaking down in tears following the defeat.
Messi has not publicly confirmed whether he will continue playing for Argentina. While his participation in future FIFA World Cups appears to have ended after his sixth tournament, the national team is scheduled to play international friendlies later this year, which could provide an opportunity for a farewell appearance.
Messi’s international career includes one FIFA World Cup title, two Copa América championships, and 125 goals in 207 appearances for Argentina.
