Lionel Messi: Argentina bid farewell to record-breaking captain

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team. The 39-year-old, who has represented Argentina in international competition for over two decades, shared his decision on social media. According to SABC News, Messi wrote an emotional message to his supporters, stating that while the choice was painful, it was the right time to conclude his international journey.

Messi's retirement was met with tributes from his teammates and former teammates. The Argentine Football Association and several clubs in the Argentine Primera Division, including River Plate, Racing, and Vélez Sarsfield, posted messages honoring Messi. His teammates, including Rodrigo de Paul and Enzo Fernández, also expressed their gratitude and admiration for Messi.

According to Daily Post Nigeria, former Argentina international Angel Di Maria praised Messi for his commitment to Argentina, declaring him the greatest footballer "in history".

Messi's international career included leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and a runner-up finish in the 2026 tournament. He scored 125 career international goals, including 21 in World Cups. Messi had previously announced his retirement from international play in 2016 but returned to lead Argentina to several championships, including the 2022 World Cup title and Copa America championships in 2021 and 2024.

Brief written by urgent.news from 3News, Daily Post Nigeria, Buenos Aires Herald, The Indian Express, SABC News — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.