Breaking: Football great Lionel Messi announces retirement from Argentina team

Renowned footballer Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentine national team. The decision came less than a month after the tragic loss of his father, Jorge, on August 7. Messi revealed his intended resignation in an Instagram post on Monday, stating that he had drafted the note two days following Argentina's loss to Spain in the 2022 World Cup final. However, he confirmed that the final decision was made after his father's passing.

Messi expressed that ending his tenure with the national team was a difficult decision, but acknowledged that the time had come. He emphasized that there wasn't much time left, with chapters ending, and this particular chapter deeply affecting him. Messi reiterated his love for the national team, acknowledging that he gave everything he had and had nothing more to offer. He also highlighted the emergence of talented young players who deserved opportunities.

A celebrated figure in football, Messi served as the captain of Argentina's men's national team, leading them to victory in the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar. Widely regarded as the best footballer of his era, Messi began his professional career with Barcelona in 2004, made his debut for Argentina the following year, and took over as captain in 2011.

As the record holder for Ballon d'Or awards with eight titles, Messi is Argentina's all-time leading appearance-maker and scorer, boasting an impressive 125 goals in 207 appearances.

Messi's achievements include winning a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, aged 21. He recently added another Copa America title in 2024 and entered the 2022 World Cup with aspirations of concluding an extraordinary career chapter. Throughout his professional journey, Messi's father played a pivotal role in nurturing his talent. The passing of Jorge Messi, Argentina's beloved footballer, was mourned across the nation.