Lionel Messi's International Retirement Leaves Fans Heartbroken

Lionel Messi's recent announcement of his retirement from international football has left fans, especially in Keralam, in shock. Former Indian footballer KT Chacko expressed his heartbreak over the loss of witnessing the Argentine legend in action. Messi's illustrious career spanned two decades, marked by numerous records and significant victories, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the Copa America. As he steps away from international play, Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. This article delves into the highlights of Messi's remarkable journey and the impact of his retirement on fans worldwide.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 1, 2026, 23:58 IST

A Shocking Decision for Football Fans

Pathanamthitta (Keralam) [India], September 1: The announcement of Lionel Messi's retirement from international football has sent shockwaves through the football community, particularly among his devoted supporters in Keralam, according to former Indian footballer KT Chacko. He expressed his sorrow at the thought of no longer witnessing the Argentine superstar donning his national team's jersey.

Chacko remarked, "Messi's decision has taken the football world by surprise. We all anticipated that he would participate in the upcoming World Cup. His retirement is a significant loss, especially for his numerous fans in Kerala. I would often stay up late just to watch him play for Argentina or his club. Even now, his images are displayed by fans throughout Kerala. I share his playing style with children to inspire them. While I may not support Argentina, I am undoubtedly a fan of Messi. The idea of not seeing him in that jersey again is truly heartbreaking."

Chacko's comments came after Messi concluded his illustrious international career, which spanned two decades with Argentina.

Messi's Remarkable Journey

Messi made his debut for the senior national team in 2005, eventually becoming Argentina's most-capped player and all-time leading scorer, with 203 appearances and 124 goals. He also holds the record for the highest number of goals in South American international football.

The 39-year-old's international journey was filled with ups and downs, culminating in a series of triumphs. After facing heartbreak in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final against Germany and another Copa America final loss to Chile in 2016, Messi finally led Argentina to victory in the Copa America in 2021, ending a 28-year wait for a major international title.

His crowning achievement came at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where Argentina triumphed over France in a dramatic penalty shootout following a 3-3 draw. Messi scored twice and successfully converted his penalty, helping Argentina secure their first World Cup title in 36 years.

Argentina also retained the Copa America title in 2024, further embellishing Messi's illustrious career.

A Legacy in World Cups

Messi had briefly retired from international football in 2016 after the Copa America final defeat but later returned to guide the national team to further success.

Throughout six FIFA World Cup tournaments from 2006 to 2026, Messi netted 21 goals in 34 matches, placing him second on the all-time scoring list, just behind France's Kylian Mbappe, who has 22 goals.

During the 2026 World Cup, Messi remained a pivotal player for Argentina, scoring eight goals and providing four assists, including his first World Cup hat-trick against Algeria. He surpassed the World Cup goal tally of German legend Miroslav Klose before Mbappe overtook him.

Although his international career has concluded, Messi will continue to play club football for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, where the team currently ranks fourth in the MLS standings with 42 points from 22 matches, boasting 12 wins, six draws, and four losses.