Lionel Messi opens up on mental health issues while playing for FC Barcelona

Lionel Messi is nearly as good as it gets in professional football. The Argentine has become a true football icon, an inspiration, a leader, and, most importantly, a trustworthy and humble individual. Despite his talent and experience, Argentina's No. 10 has always been 'down to earth' and straightforward with fans and the media.

It is not simple to lead Argentina to two substantial titles in a single year. From being FC Barcelona's shining star to fighting 'tooth and nail' for them until he left, the attacker has been under continual pressure to succeed for both club and nation. In a recent conversation, the World Cup winner revealed that he needed 'assistance' to do this.

The former Paris Saint-Germain playmaker spoke about seeing a psychologist during his time at Spain. He said, "I did for a while when I was in Barcelona, a long time ago. I was very reluctant at first. I'm someone who keeps everything bottled up. But the truth is, when I went, it did me a lot of good, I really liked it, and it helped me”

Lionel Messi’s 2026 FIFA World Cup plans 

Eight-time Ballon d'Or Winner Messi, who led the nation to global success in Qatar 2022, has revealed little about his future plans. He originally ruled out defending his World Cup title in the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada, but has subsequently backtracked slightly on those assertions.

The former FC Barcelona winger said, “I want to arrive to the next Copa America in good condition then I will see depending on how I am. I'm not thinking about the next World Cup yet. The years have passed and we have to see how I feel, I will see it day by day.”

Messi delivered an outstanding performance at the Qatar tournament to finally win the one significant title that had eluded him throughout his career. Messi netted seven goals during seven games and scored in the exciting penalty shootout against France, helping Argentina capture its third World Cup title.