Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez are as thick as thieves.
That should come as no surprise given they’ve played 291 games together at Barcelona and Inter Miami.
The duo are incredibly close off the field too and have holidayed together with their families.
However, with Messi and Suarez aged 37 and 38 respectively, both are under no illusions the end of their careers is closer than they’d perhaps like to admit.
Yet neither appears to be slowing down, especially Messi given the lure of the 2026 World Cup.
Messi will turn 39 midway through the tournament, but it would also be an historic one for the Argentinian great as it would mark his sixth World Cup.
No other player has featured in as many World Cups, although his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo could also achieve the feat should Portugal qualify and he be selected in their squad for the tournament.
In an interview with Spanish newspaper El Pais, Suarez confirmed Messi ‘still has the desire’ to represent Argentina at next year’s tournament.
However, Suarez added he has not and will not explicitly ask Messi about competing at the World Cup.
“Obviously, after being away from the national team, that feeling starts to fade more on my side than his, but we haven’t really talked about it,” Suarez said.
The Uruguayan added: “No, no, I don’t even ask him either.
“Some people don’t get it.”
“Look, here’s an anecdote about the penalty the other day. A lot of people were celebrating, getting close to him – teammates, even – and I didn’t even look at him, didn’t make a gesture or anything because I already know him.
“Sometimes, being part of that moment makes me even more nervous, gives me more uncertainty.
“I already know who he is and I don’t ask him about any of that. Time will tell.”
Although Messi may harbour aspirations of representing Argentina in one more World Cup, Suarez won’t be turning out for Uruguay one last time.
The 38-year-old retired from international duty last September as Uruguay’s all-time leading goalscorer with 69 goals from 142 games.
He also sits second on the list for the most appearances, with only Diego Godin winning more caps.
AFPSuarez was visibly emotional when he called time on his international career[/caption]
Suarez competed in four World Cups and helped Uruguay win the 2011 Copa America, where he was named as the best player of the tournament.
But his sole focus now is on delivering more silverware for Inter Miami alongside his close pal Messi.
