Lionel Messi Retires From International Football After 21 Years With Argentina

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39, bringing an end to one of the most decorated careers in the history of the national team.

Messi made the announcement on Monday, saying the decision had been painful but that he believed it was the right time to step away from international football.

“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that it is the right time,” Messi said in a statement shared on Instagram.

The legendary forward led Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar, where they defeated France on penalties in a dramatic final.

Four years later, Messi captained Argentina to another World Cup final but suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in July 2026.

Reflecting on his international career, Messi said he had always given everything for the Argentina shirt, 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. I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football,” he said.

Messi also acknowledged that a new generation of players was emerging and deserved the opportunity to represent Argentina.

“There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team,” he said.

“I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give. Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here.”

The decision comes shortly after the death of Messi’s father, Jorge, in August. Before his retirement announcement, the football icon had admitted that he had serious doubts about continuing to play football for much longer.

Messi thanked his family, coaches, teammates and officials who had been part of his journey with Argentina, describing his time with the national team as a beautiful but difficult experience.

“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you. I love you!” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to Argentine supporters for their love throughout his two-decade international career.

“Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones.”

Messi made his senior Argentina debut in 2005 and went on to become the country’s most influential player, eventually leading the team to major international honours after years of disappointment.

His retirement marks the end of an era for Argentina, although he is expected to continue his club career with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, where his contract runs until the end of the 2028 season.

Concluding his statement, Messi wrote: “Thank you God for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!”

He said he had originally written the retirement message on July 21, two days after the 2026 World Cup final, but became even more convinced of his decision following his father’s death.