Messi retires from Argentina national team after 21-year career and 2022 World Cup win

Lionel Messi announced on Monday his retirement from Argentina’s national football team, ending a 21-year international career. The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward revealed the decision in an Instagram post, stating it was “a decision that hurt, and still hurts deeply, but I understand that the time has come.”
Messi, who debuted for Argentina in a 2005 friendly against Hungary, leaves as the team’s all-time leader in appearances (207) and goals (125). He won the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles (2021, 2024), the Finalissima in 2022, and Olympic gold in 2008. His final match was Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final on July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
In his post, Messi wrote, “I swear to you that I always gave it my all, not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.” He added, “I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, alongside my teammates, moments we once only dreamed of.”
The announcement follows the death of his father, Jorge Messi, on Aug. 8. Messi had previously indicated “serious doubts” about continuing his career after his father’s passing. He noted that he had drafted the retirement statement on July 21, two days after the World Cup final, and that his father’s death reinforced his decision.
Messi’s club career continues with Inter Miami, where his contract runs through the 2028 season. His departure from the national team, known as the Albiceleste, closes a chapter that included six World Cup appearances, a runner-up finish in 2014, and a legacy as one of the most decorated players in football history.
“I emptied myself, I have nothing left to give, and besides, great young players are coming up who deserve their chance,” Messi wrote. He concluded his message by expressing love for the fans: “It was madness to have lived all this with you. I love you!”
Follow us for live European news
- 4
- 3
- 2
- 2
- 2
- 2
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
6 further sources not geolocated








