I'm happy he still has more — Di Maria reveals why he failed to attend Lionel Messi's last home game for Argentina

Former Argentina international Angel Di Maria believes that Lionel Messi will play at the next World Cup, contrary to the Inter Miami star's comments on his availability for the competition. 

Messi played his final World Cup qualifier game for Argentina during the 3-0 victory over Venezuela in Buenos Aires. It was an emotional celebration, with some of his friends and family being in attendance. 

However, although Di Maria currently plays for Rosario Central in Argentina, he did not attend the event at the Estadio Mas Monumental. The 37-year-old explained his reasons recently.

“Leo Messi hasn’t retired yet,” he said, per AlbicelesteTalk. This was his last World Cup qualifier game, but he still has a World Cup ahead of him and will surely have another match after this. For me, it's not a farewell. That’s why I didn’t go to the game. I spoke with him. I’m happy that he still has more left.”

Meanwhile, like Messi, Benfica captain Nicolás Otamendi revealed that he has played his last official game for the Argentina national team.

Lionel Messi stole the spotlight in Argentina's victory over Venezuela, scoring a brace as they claimed a 3-0 victory. After the game, the legend also revealed the possibility that it might be his last official home game for the Albiceleste.

However, he wasn't the only one contemplating a farewell. Nicolás Otamendi, Benfica's centre-back, also admitted to the same scenario.