What happened: In a farewell message Wednesday, Lionel Messi wrote that he does not know how to continue without his father. He said his father had urged him to play in one final World Cup and grew worse shortly before the tournament began.

Why it matters: The comments introduce uncertainty around the closing stage of Messi’s career weeks after his 2026 World Cup campaign ended. His father had long managed his football affairs as his agent.

What to watch: Attention now turns to whether Messi sets a timetable for his playing future after returning to competition Thursday.