Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an extraordinary 21-year career with Argentina to an emotional close. The 39-year-old confirmed the decision on social media, saying it was painful but that he believes the time has come to step away from the national team.
Messi leaves Argentina as the country’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, having made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals. His international career included six World Cup appearances and reached its greatest achievement in 2022, when he captained Argentina to its first World Cup championship since 1986.
His final international tournament came at the 2026 World Cup, where Messi once again led Argentina to the final. Argentina ultimately lost 1–0 to Spain, ending Messi’s hopes of closing his international career with another World Cup triumph.
Messi’s journey with Argentina was not always easy. Earlier in his career, he faced intense criticism after several major tournament defeats and briefly announced his international retirement in 2016 before returning. His persistence eventually produced historic success, including Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024 and the long-awaited 2022 World Cup victory.
The decision also comes shortly after the death of Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, earlier in August. Reports indicate that the loss contributed to Messi’s decision and made him more certain that it was time to end his international career.
Importantly, Messi is not retiring from professional football altogether. He is expected to continue playing club football with Inter Miami, where his contract runs through the 2028 MLS season.
For Argentina, Messi’s departure marks the end of one of the greatest eras in the nation’s football history. His record, trophies, leadership, and emotional connection with the Albiceleste have cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest-ever players.
