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Lionel Messi announces retirement from international football

Posted : 31 August 2026

Lionel Messi has confirmed his retirement from international football at the age of 39, bringing an end to a remarkable career with Argentina that spanned more than two decades.

The Argentina captain leaves the national team as the country’s most-capped player and leading goalscorer, having made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals. He also leaves behind a glittering international legacy that includes the 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar and two Copa América titles.

Messi announced his decision in an emotional statement on Instagram, explaining that although stepping away was painful, he believes the time has come to close the chapter. He said he had given everything to the national team and felt there were talented younger players ready to take their opportunities.

The 39-year-old revealed that he had written the retirement message on July 21, two days after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. Spain’s victory ended Argentina’s hopes of retaining the trophy after their triumph in Qatar four years earlier.

Messi’s decision was further reinforced by the recent death of his father, Jorge, who died aged 68 following a long illness. The Argentina star said the circumstances had made him even more certain that ending his international career was the right choice.

His departure closes one of the greatest chapters in Argentina’s football history. Messi endured years of disappointment with the national team before eventually leading the country to Copa América glory in 2021 and World Cup success in 2022.

He also guided Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, making history by extending his record to 34 World Cup appearances. Despite losing to Spain, Messi produced another outstanding tournament, finishing with eight goals and four assists.

Messi thanked his family, coaches, teammates, officials and supporters for their backing throughout his international career. He also said he would continue following Argentina from the sidelines and supporting the next generation.

Although his international career is over, Messi will continue playing club football with Inter Miami, where he remains under contract.

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