Lionel Messi, captain of Argentina’s national football team, has announced his retirement from international football at age 39, bringing an end to one of the most storied careers in the sport.
Lionel Messi confirmed the decision in a lengthy Instagram post, saying he has “given everything to the national side” but now has “nothing left to give.” He added, “Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply.”
The announcement comes weeks after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, a loss Messi admitted weighed heavily on his decision.
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“After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team. It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment,” he said.
He acknowledged the difficulty of walking away but pointed to a new generation of players ready to step forward.
“I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’ve given it my all, and besides, there are some really great young players coming through who deserve their chance,” he wrote.
Lionel Messi thanked his family, coaches, teammates, and directors, describing his time with Argentina as both beautiful and difficult. He revealed he first drafted the statement on July 21, two days after the World Cup final, but recent events involving his father reinforced his resolve.
“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. Thank you God for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!”
The eight‑time Ballon d’Or winner departs after 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina. His honours include the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles, the 2022 Finalissima, Olympic gold in 2008, and the FIFA Under‑20 World Cup in 2005.
He also ended Argentina’s 36‑year wait for a World Cup trophy, cementing his place alongside Diego Maradona as the nation’s greatest football icon.
