Lionel Messi announces retirement from Argentina national team
At 39, Lionel Messi has announced he is retiring from the Argentina national team after more than 20 years. He revealed the decision in an emotional social media post.
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, 39, has announced the end of his international career, closing a chapter spanning more than two decades with the national team.
The footballer shared the news in an emotional Instagram post, saying that after much serious reflection he decided to end his time with the national side. He admitted the decision was painful but felt it was the right moment to step away.
"I have nothing left to give"
Messi said that over more than 20 years wearing the Argentina shirt, he gave everything he had and now feels he has nothing left to give. He added that a new, highly talented generation of players is coming up behind him and deserves its chance. He thanked fans for their love and support over two decades, promising to keep following the national team, now as a supporter. He also thanked his family, coaches, teammates and the federation's leadership for accompanying him on the journey.
Messi had actually written the farewell message on July 21, two days after the 2026 World Cup final, in which Argentina lost to Spain, but chose to publish it only later. He revealed that after his father's death, he became even more certain of the decision he had already made.
Messi represented Argentina's senior national team for more than 20 years, with his greatest achievement being the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar. With Argentina he also won the Copa America twice, in 2021 and 2024. He leaves the national team as one of the greatest players in Argentine history.
