Lionel Messi has shared his heartfelt wish for two of his closest friends and former Barcelona teammates as they prepare to play the final match of their professional careers. The Argentine superstar hopes Inter Miami can deliver the perfect send-off for Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba by winning the MLS Cup title game against the Vancouver Whitecaps.
A Fitting Farewell for Barcelona Legends
Speaking to the official MLS website on Thursday, December 5 (Philippine time), Messi expressed his desire to see the decorated Spanish duo cap their illustrious careers with one more championship. Busquets and Alba will retire immediately after the final showdown at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
"It would be very nice for me, for them, for everyone," Messi stated. "May they finish their careers with a title and in the best possible way." He emphasized that adding another trophy would be a beautiful and positive memory, concluding their great careers with joy.
Messi, who joined Inter Miami in 2023, was soon reunited with Busquets and Alba after they departed Barcelona. He believes winning the MLS Cup final would allow them to say goodbye to football in the United States in a truly special manner.
A Tough Challenge Against a Strengthened Vancouver
The Inter Miami captain acknowledged that his team faces a demanding opponent in the Vancouver Whitecaps. Miami's memory is still fresh from being eliminated by Vancouver from the CONCACAF Champions Cup with two wins last April.
Messi highlighted Vancouver's consistency throughout the year and noted their squad has become even more formidable. Thomas Müller, the Bayern Munich legend and 2014 World Cup winner, joined the Whitecaps in August, significantly boosting their threat.
"We know what kind of team they are," Messi said. "It's going to be a very tough game, and Müller's addition makes them even stronger. It will be a very special final, and we hope it goes our way." He added that Müller's move to MLS has brought positive attention to the league.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 World Cup
While his friends prepare to retire, the 38-year-old Messi shows no signs of slowing down. The Argentina captain expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, where his nation will defend its title.
He pointed to the significant growth of football culture in North America as a positive sign for the tournament, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026. "In recent years there has been important growth in the number of fans who enjoy the game and are passionate about their teams," Messi observed about MLS.
He also praised Mexico's strong league and expressed confidence in the hosts' ability to stage a memorable event. "People expect something extraordinary because the U.S. is used to hosting big events, and this is the most important event in soccer," Messi concluded.
