Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football after leading Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final in July.
Messi, 39, made the announcement on Monday through a message on Instagram. He said the decision had caused him deep pain but believed it was the right time to leave the national team.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that it is the right time,” Messi wrote.
Messi reflects on World Cup defeat
Messi said he wrote the message two days after Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19.
He also referred to the loss of his father as a factor in his decision.
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“After what happened with my father, I am more convinced than ever,” he said.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he had always given everything for Argentina.
He stressed that commitment went beyond the years when the team achieved major success.
‘I always fought for this shirt’
Messi said he had spent his career fighting to bring joy and pride to Argentine supporters.
“I always fought and gave my all for this shirt,” he wrote.
He said he wanted to make Argentines feel proud through football.
“There isn’t much time left, and chapters are gradually coming to a close,” Messi added.
He described his decision to leave the national team as particularly painful.
Young players ready to step up
Messi said he had nothing more to give after dedicating himself fully to Argentina.
“I gave everything I had; I have nothing more left to give,” he wrote.
He also pointed to a new generation of talented Argentine players.
Messi said the young players deserved opportunities to represent the national team.
His decision marks the end of an era for Argentina after two decades of international football.
Gratitude to fans and teammates
The football icon thanked supporters for standing by him throughout his international career.
He also expressed gratitude to his family, coaches and teammates.
Messi said he would now support Argentina from outside the team.
“Now I’ll be one of you, always cheering and supporting from the outside,” he wrote.
He said he would continue supporting the national team in both good and difficult moments.
An emotional farewell
Messi reflected on the achievements he shared with his teammates and supporters.
He said they had experienced moments that once seemed impossible to imagine.
“I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, together with my teammates, moments we could only have dreamed of,” he wrote.
The announcement brings an emotional close to Messi’s international career with Argentina.
His message ended with a simple expression of affection for the supporters who followed him throughout his journey.
