In brief
Messi, 39, has announced his retirement, quoting a heartfelt statement that he has nothing left to give to the national side. He ends a 20‑year stint, scoring 125 goals in 207 matches and leading Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title. The decision follows the death of his father and the team's loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. He will continue playing for Inter Miami in MLS until 2028. His retirement marks the end of an era for Argentine football.
Argentina legend Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football in a statement that combined emotion with a sense of closure. He said the decision was hard but that the time has come and that he has "nothing left to give" to the national squad.
For 207 matches Messi netted 125 goals, becoming the country’s all‑time top scorer and most capped player. He captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022 and added two Copa America titles to his collection.
The former Wanderers star cited the death of his father Jorge earlier this year and Argentina’s loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final as pivotal moments that accelerated his decision to quit the international scene. He conveyed that the influence of the new generation of players warrants giving them space.
Messi’s club career will continue at Inter Miami. His contract extends through the 2028 season, giving him a final few years of top‑flight competition before he eventually steps away from the sport altogether.
This retirement marks the conclusion of a 20‑year international journey with Argentina. Fans worldwide will remember his masterful performances, the trophies he helped bring home, and the calm dignity he showed when stepping away from the pitch.
