Lionel Messi makes first public appearance since World Cup final, and it comes at surprising location

No one was quite sure how far Argentina could go in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but after a couple of games, fans started to dream big once again. Lionel Messi proved he’s still at the top of his game, providing crucial goal contributions while leading Argentina to the final.

But after so many close calls that required the team to use up all of their energy, there was nothing left to face Spain. Messi couldn’t impart his magic, souring what looked to be a true fairytale ending for Messi’s international career. It was clear that the loss hit Messi hard when he was seen crying after the final whistle. He then went invisible on social media, posting just once after the game and not joining his teammates on their flight home to Argentina – despite Messi himself landing in Rosario shortly after.

Fans want to know what Messi is up to, but he clearly needs personal space right now to be with his family and recover. That, seemingly, entails attending a local soccer match. For the first time since losing the final and arriving in Argentina, Messi was seen in public on Saturday. Alongside his son, Mateo Messi, Leo attended the game between Leones de Rosario and Central Cordoba.

Lionel Messi attends local game in Rosario, Argentina alongside son

Leones de Rosario was actually founded by the Messi Family in 2015. The currently participate in the fourth level of Argentina’s soccer pyramid, in Primera C. The club is run by Leo’s brother, Matias Messi.

Lionel should be back in action relatively soon. Inter Miami has already started up MLS play once again, but they’re going to give Messi as much time as he needs to recover both physically and emotionally.