Messi linked with Argentina presidency after international retirement

Lionel Messi has achieved almost everything possible on the football field. From the World Cup to the Copa America, the Argentine superstar has collected major honours throughout his career. Now, after bidding farewell to international football, a completely different discussion has emerged: could Messi eventually enter politics and become Argentina’s president?

The speculation resurfaced after a claim circulated on social media in July. US sports outlet Yahoo Sports also published a report on the matter. In it, a geopolitical analyst and self-described futurist claimed that the World Cup-winning captain could become Argentina’s president within the next five to 10 years.

The claim was made by Canadian academic and futurist known as “Professor Jiang” during an interview with American political commentator Nicholas Keen de Balinthazy, popularly known as Sneako.

According to Jiang, Messi could enter professional politics in the near future and eventually reach the country’s highest office.

Jiang claims to use game theory and scientific strategies to analyse global political events. He also said some of his previous political predictions had come true. However, his professional credentials and the scientific basis of his predictions could not be independently verified.

Jiang made an even bigger prediction about Argentina’s political future, claiming that Messi could remain in power for nearly two decades if he became president.

He also claimed that some controversial and potentially damaging decisions could be taken during Messi’s presidency. At the same time, Jiang suggested that current Argentine President and far-right leader Javier Milei could retain significant influence behind the scenes even if Messi took office.

Thus, the player who led Argentina to World Cup glory on the football pitch is now at the centre of speculation about a possible future in the country’s highest political office.

For now, however, the claim remains only a prediction by a self-described futurist. Messi himself has not announced any plans to enter Argentine politics or run for president.