Lionel Messi Announces Retirement From International Football
The 39-year-old forward, who currently plays for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, confirmed his decision following extensive deliberation after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Argentine football icon Lionel Messi on Monday announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtains on an illustrious two-decade-long career with the national team, according to reports.
The 39-year-old forward, who currently plays for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, confirmed his decision following extensive deliberation after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
"After all this time since the final and after thinking about it a lot, I want to announce that I am retiring from the national team," Messi was quoted as saying in a statement.
Describing the move as a painful but necessary step, Messi said he had always given his all for the Albiceleste, adding that an emerging generation of talented players deserved their opportunities on the international stage.
The decision brings an end to one of the most decorated careers in football history. Messi leaves the international arena with an enviable record, having captained Argentina to the FIFA World Cup title in 2022, back-to-back Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 Finalissima, and an Olympic gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Games.
During his international career, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner made 207 appearances for Argentina, scoring a record 125 goals.
