Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from International Football

Lionel Messi announced on Monday that he is retiring from international football after guiding Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final in July.

The 39-year-old forward, who lifted the World Cup in 2022, led Argentina to the final in the United States in 2026, where they were beaten by Spain. Messi described the decision to step away from international duty as a deeply painful one.

“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that it is the right time,” Messi said in a statement posted on Instagram.

He added that he had always given everything for Argentina, not only during the years when the team enjoyed major success but throughout his entire international career.

Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Doha in 2022, defeating France on penalties. Four years later, however, Argentina’s bid for another title ended with a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The announcement also comes shortly after the death of Messi’s father, Jorge, in August. At the time, Messi admitted that he had serious doubts about continuing to play football for much longer, saying he was unsure how he would move forward without his father.

Messi remains under contract with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami through the end of the 2028 season.

The Argentine superstar has made 207 international appearances and is his country’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals. During his 21-year international career, he also won two Copa América titles.

At the 2026 World Cup, Messi played a key role in Argentina’s run to the final, scoring eight goals and contributing two assists, including during a dramatic comeback against England in the semi-final.

However, Argentina fell short in the final against Spain, with the defeat followed by heated scenes involving players from both teams. Several Argentina players, including midfielder Leandro Paredes, were later punished for their involvement in the post-match clashes.

Messi was visibly emotional after receiving his runners-up medal. He later described the defeat as an immense disappointment and said it would take a long time for the pain to heal.

In announcing his retirement, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said Argentina’s next generation was ready to take over.

“I love, I loved, and I will always love being on the national team,” Messi wrote. “I gave everything I had, I have nothing more to give. There are also some very talented young players coming through who deserve their opportunity.”