Following Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final in New Jersey, speculation over Messi's future with the national team intensified. At 39 years old, the Argentine captain has likely played his last World Cup match, but he has yet to announce whether he intends to continue representing Argentina. Di María, who retired from international football after helping Argentina win the 2024 Copa América, hopes his longtime teammate makes a different decision.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Di María said, "Yes, I hope Leo keeps playing for Argentina for as long as he wants. I truly believe he still has many years left in him."
The former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain winger insisted that Messi's performances throughout the tournament proved age is nothing more than a number.
"At 39, he has shown that he is not only one of the greatest players in the world but the greatest in football history. There are simply no limits to what he can do," Di María added.
Spain secured the World Cup title after Ferran Torres capitalized on Argentina being reduced to ten men following Enzo Fernández's red card in the 106th minute, scoring the decisive goal in extra time. Argentina failed to find an equalizer, ending their dream of becoming the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups.
Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Messi's individual brilliance remained unquestionable. He finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, serving as the driving force behind Lionel Scaloni's attack. His creativity, leadership, and clinical finishing inspired Argentina through a difficult knockout stage and into a second consecutive World Cup final.
For Di María, however, Argentina's 2-1 semifinal victory over England will forever remain the defining moment of the tournament.
"The win against England brought incredible joy to the entire country. That was obvious, and it made me extremely happy," he said. "I'll be grateful to every player in this squad for the rest of my life."
He admitted he had been nervous throughout the competition but praised the team for repeatedly finding the strength to overcome difficult moments.
"I was worried before every match, but the players always found something extra within themselves and got the job done. You can't win every final. Sometimes luck just isn't on your side. But they have elevated the pride and reputation of the national team."
According to Di María, defeating England alone gave Argentinians memories that will last forever.
"For me, the World Cup ended the day Argentina beat England. They gave the entire nation a level of happiness that simply can't be put into words."
Di María also expressed his hope that head coach Lionel Scaloni remains in charge despite growing speculation over his future following the World Cup. With a talented new generation emerging, he believes Argentina is well positioned to compete for more major trophies.
"I hope Scaloni stays because it would be best for everyone. There's an outstanding generation of players ready to achieve great things. The final decision is his, of course, but I truly hope he continues."
Since the World Cup final, Messi has largely stayed out of the public spotlight and has yet to make any official statement regarding his international future. For now, he is expected to return to Inter Miami and focus on the remainder of the MLS season.
Although another World Cup appearance appears highly unlikely, the 2028 Copa América could become the final major chapter of Messi's international career. For Di María, however, the message is simple: as long as Messi continues to perform at such an extraordinary level, no one else should decide when his journey with Argentina comes to an end.
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