Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from International Football: A Tribute from Argentina's President

Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football, a decision that follows a remarkable career filled with triumphs and challenges. The Argentine President, Javier Milei, praised Messi's contributions, calling him the 'impossible man.' Messi's retirement comes after a heartbreaking World Cup final loss and the recent passing of his father. In his emotional farewell, Messi expressed gratitude for the support he received over the years and acknowledged the emergence of young talent in the national team. As he steps away from international play, Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. This article delves into Messi's legacy, his achievements, and the impact he has had on football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 1, 2026, 00:15 IST

Messi's Retirement Marks the End of an Era

In a heartfelt announcement, Lionel Messi has declared his retirement from international football, a decision that has drawn praise from Argentina's President, Javier Milei. This marks the conclusion of an illustrious career filled with remarkable achievements, emotional moments, and unforgettable goals.

Messi's retirement comes just over a month after Argentina's narrow defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final and shortly after the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, who died on August 8 at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina.

Expressing his gratitude on Instagram, President Milei referred to Messi as the 'impossible man,' saying, 'Muchas gracias HOMBRE IMPOSIBLE…!!!' which translates to 'Thank you very much impossible man.'

In a statement reported by 433, Messi expressed, 'After reflecting on everything since the final, I want to announce that I am retiring from the national team. This decision is painful, but I believe it is the right time.'

'I have always given my all, not just in recent years when we achieved success, but throughout my career. I fought hard to bring joy to the fans and make them proud to be Argentine through football,' he continued.

Messi conveyed that this transition is deeply emotional for him, as he feels he has exhausted all he could offer. He acknowledged the rise of younger players in the team, stating they 'deserve their chance.'

'Time is limited, and new chapters are beginning. This one is particularly hard for me. I have loved being part of the national team and have given everything I could. I also recognize the great young talents who are ready to step up,' he remarked.

He expressed gratitude for the support he has received over the past two decades, stating that while he will miss playing, he will continue to cheer for the national team as a fan.

'Thank you to my family for their unwavering support throughout this beautiful yet challenging journey. I cherish the memories and moments shared with every coach, teammate, and director,' he added.

'I leave with peace and pride, knowing that my teammates and I provided unforgettable moments. It was surreal to experience all of this with you. I love you!'

In closing, he stated, 'Thank you God for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!' He reflected on his decision, especially after the recent loss of his father, reinforcing his conviction.

Messi holds the record as Argentina's most-capped player and top scorer, with 203 appearances and 124 goals, and is the highest goal-scorer in South American football history.

In 2022, after enduring years of disappointment, including a loss in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final to Germany, Messi finally achieved World Cup glory, leading Argentina to victory against France. This was Argentina's first World Cup win in 36 years.

Previously, Messi played a crucial role in ending Argentina's 28-year title drought by winning the Copa America in 2021 and successfully defending the title in the 2024 edition.

Messi had briefly retired from international football in 2016 after a Copa America final loss but returned to guide his nation to World Cup success six years later, scoring two goals and converting a penalty in the final.

Over six FIFA World Cups from 2006 to 2026, Messi scored 21 goals in 34 matches, making him the second-highest goal-scorer in the tournament's history, just behind Kylian Mbappe.

In this year's World Cup, Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists, showcasing his exceptional talent, including a hat-trick against Algeria. He surpassed Miroslav Klose's record for the most World Cup goals before Mbappe took the lead.

Despite his international retirement, Messi will continue to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), where the team currently ranks fourth with 12 wins, six draws, and four losses, totaling 42 points, trailing Nashville SC by 10 points.