Lionel Messi is just months away from what looks to be his final shot at the World Cup.

In an inspired run to the final in 2014, the Barcelona star came inches from lifting football's ultimate prize only for Mario Gotze and Germany to slide their way into top spot. He had to settle for the Golden Ball and was cruelly dished out two Copa America final defeats in the proceeding two years.

After the second of those defeats, Messi briefly retired from international football, only to return in what could be a last attempt at glory.

The 30-year-old has hinted at a more permanent retirement after the World Cup, too, assuming Argentina fall short in Russia.

Speaking to La Cornisa, he cryptically stated: "We feel that, if we won’t win the World Cup in Russia, the only way will be to give up the national team.

Messi's final shot at World Cup glory?

“I dream of winning the trophy in Russia. My wish is to live something similar to Brazil 2014. You can do everything OK and fail, like Argentina in Brazil.”

It's a sad tale for a player who's arguably the greatest to ever play the game, there's no doubt about it.

While Argentina are far from favourites and nearly missed out on qualification, you can guarantee Messi will throw the kitchen sink at a competition many believe is the only thing holding him back from GOAT status.

Messi ruins Argentina teammates with solo goal

Well, his behaviour in training for his country this week suggests he's taking World Cup year very, very seriously.

In fact, a video has emerged of the 30-year-old producing an outrageous individual goal from practically his own-half - slicing through his teammates like a warm knife through butter.

Check out the glorious solo effort below:

There are better sights on a football pitch than Messi embarking on one of his mazy runs and producing a finish to match at the end.

And while you'd struggle to find many defenders with any hope of stopping that move, it's perhaps symbolic of the problem that could lie ahead for Argentina's hope - whether everyone else in the squad can keep up with their talisman.

Messi needed to bail them out in qualifying but the likes of Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala and Angel Di Maria will need to raise the bar that extra level to secure success.

In the fairytale career of Messi, though, you wouldn't put it past him to go all the way this summer.

Do you think Lionel Messi needs to win the World Cup to be the GOAT? Have your say in the comments section below.