Monday 31 / August / 2026
Buenos Aires: Lionel Messi has announced his decision to retire from the Argentina national team, bringing an emotional chapter of his illustrious international career to a close.
In a heartfelt statement, Messi said the decision had been painful but that he believed it was the right moment to step away from international football.
“I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too,” Messi said, stressing his commitment to the Argentina shirt throughout his career.
The 39-year-old forward said he had always fought to bring happiness to Argentine supporters and make them proud through football.
“There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot,” Messi said. “I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give.”
Messi also pointed to the emergence of a new generation of Argentine players, saying they deserved opportunities to represent the national team.
He thanked his family, coaches, teammates and directors who accompanied him throughout his 20-year international journey, describing the memories and experiences as unforgettable.
Messi said he would continue to support Argentina from outside the team, particularly during difficult moments.
“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of,” he said.
The statement concluded with a strong expression of national pride: “Thank you God for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!”
Messi noted that he had written the statement on July 21, two days after the final, but said subsequent events involving his father had made him even more convinced that retirement was the right decision.
The announcement concerns Messi’s Argentina national-team career and does not, by itself, confirm his retirement from professional club football.
