Don't cry for me, Argentina: Lionel Messi retires from international football

Argentina legend Lionel Messi bid an emotional farewell to his beloved national team and international football. The 39-year-old captain announced his retirement after a remarkable career. Since making his debut in 2005 at the age of 18, Messi has achieved incredible success with Argentina, winning two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup.

However, following a devastating 1-0 loss to Spain in his third World Cup final appearance and the sudden passing of his father Jorge Messi earlier this month, Messi decided to step away from the national team. In an emotional Instagram post, Messi expressed his decision, saying that the time had come to end his international career.

He emphasized that he had always given his all, not just in recent years when Argentina won everything, but throughout his entire career. Messi expressed his love for the team and the pride he took in representing Argentina on the field, stating that it was time for younger players to take their place. He thanked his family, coaches, teammates, and officials for their support and promised to cheer them on from the sidelines.

Messi concluded his statement with gratitude for the affection shown over the past 20 years and left the field with the pride of giving unforgettable memories to his country.