BUENOS AIRES: Sept 1, 2026 — Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39, bringing an end to his 21-year journey with the Argentina national team.
Messi delivered the decision via his personal Instagram page yesterday, after taking several weeks to ponder his future following Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on July 19.
“After some time has passed since the final, and after much thought, I wish to announce my retirement from the national team,” he said.
Messi acknowledged the decision was painful, but believes the time has come to make way for a new generation.
“I have given everything and there is nothing more I can offer. Many great young players are emerging, and they deserve their place,” he stated.
He expressed his gratitude to his family, teammates, and Argentina supporters for their unwavering support throughout his two-decade career.
“I leave with peace of mind and great pride because we managed to deliver those dream moments together with my teammates,” he said.
Messi made his senior debut for Argentina in 2005 and ends his international journey as the most capped player and all-time top scorer in the team’s history.
Over the course of his international career, Messi recorded 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina, while also helping the team secure Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, the Finalissima in 2022, and the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.
Although he will no longer don the Argentina jersey, Messi will continue his professional career with Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer (MLS).
