Emi Martinez backs Lionel Messi to guide Argentina to World Cup glory once more aged 39 – after discovering golden contact for nationwide facet

Lionel Messi can lead Argentina to World Cup glory in two years although he’ll flip 39 through the event, insists shut pal Emi Martinez.

Messi realised a lifelong ambition when he helped Argentina to their third title in Qatar in 2022 and was additionally a part of the squads who received the Copa America in 2021 and earlier this 12 months.

After years of disappointment with the nationwide facet, Messi has discovered the golden contact and although Qatar was extensively assumed to have been his final World Cup, Martinez believes the Inter Miami star could have another left in him.

‘I believe he’ll go 12 months after 12 months and see how he feels,’ mentioned the Aston Villa goalkeeper. ‘I nonetheless assume he has obtained the ability to go to the World Cup.’

Martinez’s friendship with Messi had some Villa followers daydreaming that the 37-year-old – regarded by many to be the best participant within the historical past of the sport – may very well be tempted right into a swansong at Villa Park.

Emi Martinez, left, believes his shut pal might function on the subsequent World Cup aged 39

Messi now has the golden contact with Argentina after World Cup and two Copa America wins

But Martinez believes there was by no means any probability of the transfer taking place – due to the Birmingham climate. 

He added: ‘Pay attention, he was leaving Barcelona after so a few years. I don’t assume he was going to return to Birmingham, chilly and wet climate! No probability.’

Martinez faces former membership Arsenal on Saturday with each attempting to construct on a successful begin to the marketing campaign. 

Arsenal beat Wolves 2-0 at Emirates Stadium on the opening weekend of the Premier League marketing campaign, with Villa successful 2-1 at West Ham.