READING, UK (ABT NEWS) — In a monumental announcement that marks the end of an era, Lionel Messi has officially retired from international football at the age of 39. The legendary forward confirmed his decision on Monday, bringing down the curtain on a historic 20-year career with the Argentina national team 🇦🇷
Why is Messi Retiring?
In an emotional statement shared on his social media, Messi revealed that he had originally drafted his farewell on July 21, just two days after Argentina’s heartbreaking 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. However, the recent passing of his father and agent, Jorge Messi, in early August reaffirmed his decision to finally step away.
Messi expressed that while the decision “hurt and still hurts deep down,” he recognized it was the right time. “I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give,” he wrote, acknowledging that a new generation of talented young players is ready to take up the mantle. “Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply”. He will continue playing club football for MLS side Inter Miami CF, where he remains under contract through the 2028 season.
An Extraordinary International Legacy
Messi debuted for the senior national side in 2005 and retires as the most decorated and statistically dominant player in La Albiceleste’s history. His extraordinary record includes:
- 207 Caps: The most-capped player in the history of the Argentina national team.
- 125 Goals: Argentina’s all-time leading goalscorer.
- Major Trophies: He famously led Argentina to global glory by winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, flanked by back-to-back Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, as well as the Finalissima.
- World Cup Records: Across 34 World Cup matches, Messi scored 21 goals, holding records for the most victories by an individual player and becoming the oldest player to score a hat-trick on the world stage.
After 20 years of wearing the iconic blue and white shirt through profound heartbreaks and ultimate triumphs, Messi leaves international football with absolute peace. “I leave with the peace and pride of having given you, along with my teammates, dreamlike moments,” he told his millions of supporters. “Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside”.
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