Argentina icon Lionel Messi has called time on his international career. The legendary forward announced his retirement at the age of 39.
The Inter Miami star confirmed the news through an emotional Instagram message on Monday, August 31.
Messi spent more than 21 years representing Argentina. He became the country’s record appearance maker and leading goalscorer. He finished his international career with 207 caps and 125 goals.
No other Argentine player has reached those figures.
Messi also enjoyed huge success with the national team. He captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. He also won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024. In addition, he lifted the Finalissima.
This summer, Messi helped Argentina reach another World Cup final. Spain defeated them in the showpiece match.
Messi first wrote his retirement message on July 21. That came two days after the final defeat. The recent death of his father, Jorge, also strengthened his feeling that the time had come to step away.
Messi’s emotional retirement statement
Messi explained his decision in an emotional message to Argentina supporters.
He admitted that retiring from the national team was painful. However, he believes the time has arrived for a new generation.
“After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the national team.”
Messi said the decision still hurts deeply. He also stressed that he always gave everything for the Argentina shirt.
The former Barcelona star thanked the supporters for their affection throughout his international career. He also thanked his family, coaches, teammates and officials.
Messi reflected on the memories he created with Argentina. He said he leaves with pride after achieving dreams that once seemed impossible.
He also praised the young players coming through the national team. Messi believes they deserve the opportunity to represent Argentina.
The message ended with a final tribute to his country.
“Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Let’s go, Argentina!”
What comes next for Messi
Messi will now focus fully on club football.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains under contract with Inter Miami. His current deal keeps him in Major League Soccer until the end of the 2028 campaign.
Messi made his senior Argentina debut in 2005. He went on to play at six World Cups.
He reached the World Cup final three times. His biggest international achievement came in 2022, when Argentina beat France to lift the trophy.
His retirement marks the end of an extraordinary international career.
Argentina must now prepare for life without the player many regard as the greatest footballer in the country’s history.
A new era begins for the national team. Messi will no longer lead the team on the pitch, but his legacy with Argentina will remain for generations.
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