Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to one of the most remarkable careers in the history of the Argentina national team.
The 39-year-old forward confirmed his decision after leading Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final, saying the choice was painful but necessary.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that it is the right time,” Messi wrote in a statement shared on Instagram.
The Argentine captain said he had always given his best whenever he represented the national team, including during the difficult years before the country’s recent successes.
“I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt,” he said.
Messi’s international journey has been defined by both challenges and historic achievements.
After years of disappointment in major tournaments, he finally lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in 2022 when Argentina defeated France in a dramatic penalty shootout in Doha.
He later guided Argentina to another World Cup final in 2026, although the team lost 1-0 to Spain in the final.
The decision also comes after a difficult personal period for Messi following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, in August.
The football star had previously admitted that he had serious doubts about continuing his playing career for much longer following the loss.
Lionel Messi reflects on Argentina legacy after two decades
In his farewell message, Messi reflected on the pride he felt representing Argentina and thanked everyone who contributed to his journey with the national team.
“There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot,” he wrote.
“I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give.”
Messi also acknowledged the emergence of younger Argentine players, saying they deserved opportunities to continue building the future of the national team.
The Inter Miami forward thanked his teammates, coaches, directors and supporters who shared the journey with him throughout his international career.
He said he would continue supporting Argentina as a fan after stepping away from active duty.
“Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones,” Messi said.
During his international career, Messi became Argentina’s most recognised football figure, leading the team through several generations and ending the country’s long wait for a World Cup title.
His relationship with the national team was once marked by criticism after defeats in major finals, but he eventually secured his place among Argentina’s greatest sporting icons.
Although he has retired from international football, Messi remains under contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami until the end of the 2028 season.
The announcement marks the end of an era for Argentina and world football, as one of the game’s greatest players prepares to watch the national team from outside the pitch.
Messi leaves international football with a legacy built on records, trophies and unforgettable moments that have shaped the history of the sport.
