Lionel Messi has retired from international football, bringing an emotional end to his Argentina career after the team suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in extra time in the World Cup final in July.
The 39-year-old had hoped to lead Argentina to back-to-back World Cup titles but fell short in the final. He finishes his international career with 207 appearances and 125 goals, making him the second-most capped men’s international footballer.
Messi reveals decision after World Cup final
Messi reportedly decided to retire two days after Argentina’s defeat but delayed announcing it following his father Jorge Messi’s illness and subsequent death in August at the age of 68.
Announcing his decision on Instagram, Messi said the choice had been painful but acknowledged that the time had come to step away from the national team.
His retirement brings the curtain down on an international career spanning more than two decades and filled with major triumphs and difficult moments.
World Cup glory remains a defining moment
Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and was named the tournament’s best player. He had also won the Golden Ball in 2014 after Argentina reached the final.
During his final World Cup campaign, Messi and Kylian Mbappe surpassed Miroslav Klose’s previous goalscoring tally. Messi finishes his World Cup career as the second-highest scorer, behind Mbappe.
Messi continues with Inter Miami
Although his Argentina journey has ended, Messi is not retiring from football altogether.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and Barcelona icon will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
For Argentina, however, the departure marks the end of an extraordinary era led by one of football’s most celebrated players.