Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an extraordinary 21-year career with Argentina to an end.
The 39-year-old superstar said he had reached a point where he felt he had “nothing more to give” to the national team after an emotional and historic journey.
Messi made his Argentina debut in 2005 and went on to become the country’s most-capped player and all-time leading scorer. He leaves the international stage with 207 appearances and 125 goals.
His career with Argentina included some of football’s greatest achievements. After years of disappointment, Messi finally led his country to Copa América glory in 2021 before completing his international trophy collection with victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also won the 2024 Copa América and the 2022 Finalissima, in addition to Olympic gold with Argentina in 2008.
His decision follows Argentina’s defeat in the 2026 World Cup final, bringing to a close one of the most remarkable international careers in football history.
Messi’s retirement applies to international football, meaning he can still continue his club career with Inter Miami.
For Argentina and football fans around the world, the announcement marks the end of an era for one of the greatest players the game has ever produced.
