In pictures: Lionel Messi returns to Argentina as 2026 World Cup qualifiers kick off

Nine months ago, Lionel Messi crowned his glittering career by leading Argentina to a World Cup crown in Qatar cementing his status as the greatest player of his generation. Following the glorious win, the football star ended his career with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and started a new chapter of his career with Inter Miami. He had a dazzling start to his career in the Major League Soccer and now, Messi returned to international duty with Argentina this week as South America's long qualifying road to the 2026 World Cup kicks off on September 7, 2023. Argentina will face Moises Caicedo’s Ecuador on Thursday at the Monumental de Nunez Stadium in its first official match since winning the World Cup in December.

In This Pic : Lionel Messi

Pic Courtesy : Reuters