Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an extraordinary 21-year career with Argentina to an end. The 39-year-old captain said the decision was painful but acknowledged that the time had come to close another chapter of his career.
Messi leaves the Argentina national team as its most-capped player and leading goal scorer, with 125 goals in 207 appearances. His greatest achievement came in Qatar in 2022, when he led Argentina to their first World Cup title since 1986.
A Remarkable International Career
During his time with Argentina, Messi also won two Copa America titles, establishing himself as one of the greatest players in international football history. He currently has the second-highest number of World Cup goals, with 21, behind France's Kylian Mbappe.
Messi revealed that he had written his retirement message on 21 July, shortly after Argentina's defeat by Spain in the World Cup final. The loss, together with the recent death of his father, Jorge Messi, appears to have influenced his decision.
In his farewell message, Messi thanked Argentina supporters for their love throughout his career and said he was leaving with pride after sharing unforgettable moments with his teammates.
Club Career Continues
Although his Argentina career is over, Messi is not retiring from football altogether. He remains with Inter Miami, where his current contract runs through the end of the 2028 season.
Messi previously announced his international retirement in 2016 after Argentina lost the Copa America final to Chile, but later returned to the national side. This time, however, the Argentina legend appears ready to watch from the sidelines as a new generation takes his place.