Messi says goodbye to Argentina after glittering 21-year international career
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July.
Lionel Messi has ended his illustrious 21-year international career with Argentina, announcing his retirement from football with the South American nation. The 39-year-old forward, who recently tasted World Cup glory in July, is also Argentina's top scorer with 125 goals in 207 appearances. Messi had led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup final against France, but his side suffered defeat against Spain in the 2026 final.
The decision to retire was a painful one, according to Messi, who wrote on Instagram that it still stings deeply. He expressed gratitude for his time with the national team and acknowledged the arrival of young talent who will carry the mantle. Messi's contract with MLS club Inter Miami remains until the end of the 2028 season.
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