Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, bringing an end to one of the most celebrated international careers in football history.
The 39-year-old Argentina captain confirmed his decision in an emotional statement, saying he had spent considerable time reflecting on his future after the 2026 World Cup final.
Messi said the decision remained painful, but he believed the time had come to step away from the national team.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment.”
The announcement follows Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final on July 19. Messi subsequently returned to club football with Inter Miami, but his future became increasingly uncertain following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, earlier this month.
Jorge Messi, who was 68, had been his son’s longtime representative and a major figure in his career.
Messi revealed that he had actually written his retirement statement on July 21, two days after the World Cup final, but recent events involving his father strengthened his resolve.
“I wrote these words on July 21, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced of this decision than before.”
The forward said he believed he had given everything possible to Argentina throughout his international career, including during the difficult years before the team’s recent successes.
“I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too.”
Messi said representing Argentina had been one of the defining experiences of his life and that his commitment extended beyond the trophies he eventually won.
“I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.”
His international career was marked by years of disappointment before Argentina’s remarkable run of major victories.
Messi eventually led the country to the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa América, before taking Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final. His decision now closes a 20-year chapter with the national team.
Messi also acknowledged that a new generation of Argentine players was emerging and deserved opportunities.
“There are great young players coming through who deserve to be here.”
The Argentina captain said he would continue supporting the national team, although from outside the playing squad.
“Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones.”
He thanked his family, coaches, teammates and officials who accompanied him throughout his international career, describing the journey as both beautiful and difficult.
“I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.”
Messi also expressed pride in what Argentina achieved together.
“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of.”
The announcement ends Messi’s international playing career after more than two decades of representing Argentina and leaves the national team facing the challenge of replacing its most influential player of the modern era.
Messi ended his farewell with a message that reflected his enduring connection with his country:
“Thank you God for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!”
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