Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football with Argentina after an illustrious career spanning more than two decades.
The 39-year-old made his Argentina debut in 2005 and went on to earn 207 caps, winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa América titles.
Messi also finished as a World Cup runner-up in 2014 and 2026.
In a statement announcing his decision, the Inter Miami forward said the choice was painful but acknowledged that the time had come to bring his international career to an end.
“It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come,” Messi said.
He added that he had always given everything for the national team and was proud to have represented Argentina throughout his career.
“I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to offer, and moreover, there are some exceptional young players emerging who deserve this opportunity,” he said.
Messi also revealed that the recent death of his father, Jorge, had caused him to question whether he would continue playing for Argentina.
Reflecting on Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain in July, Messi admitted that he struggled physically during the match.
“My legs could no longer continue,” he said. “This time I attempted to push myself beyond my physical limits, but I was unable to.”
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, currently plays for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, where he is contracted until 2028.
His retirement marks the end of a remarkable Argentina career that included the country’s long-awaited World Cup triumph and multiple international honours.
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