Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from International Football: A Heartfelt Farewell
Messi's Retirement Announcement
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) expressed gratitude towards Lionel Messi following his announcement of retirement from international football via social media on Monday. In his Instagram message, Messi revealed that he made this decision just two days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. He also mentioned that the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, played a significant role in his choice, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in his career.
AFA's Tribute to Messi
In a post on X, AFA honored Messi for his unforgettable journey and the legacy he has left for Argentine football, commending his professionalism and leadership. They stated, "Thank you for giving us the most beautiful journey of our lives. Your legacy and professionalism will remain forever etched in our hearts. Thank you, Captain. We love you," accompanied by a heartfelt image.
AFA further expressed, "Eternal thanks, Leo. We'll love you until the end of our days," in another post, showcasing the deep affection the organization holds for the football icon.
The Impact of Personal Loss
Messi's retirement comes over a month after Argentina's narrow 1-0 loss to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final and shortly after the death of his father, who passed away on August 8 in Rosario at the age of 68.
Messi's Emotional Statement
In a statement reported by 433, Messi shared, "After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I'm retiring from the national team. It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment."
He emphasized his commitment to the national team, stating, "I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football."
Messi acknowledged the emotional weight of this decision, expressing that he has given everything he could and recognized the emergence of young talent in the squad who deserve their chance.
A Legacy of Achievements
Messi is celebrated as Argentina's most-capped player and top goal scorer, with an impressive record of 203 appearances and 124 goals, making him the highest goal-scorer in South American football history.
World Cup and Copa America Triumphs
In 2022, Messi finally achieved FIFA World Cup glory after years of near misses, including a heartbreaking loss in the 2014 final against Germany. He led Argentina to victory over France, marking their first World Cup win in 36 years.
Additionally, 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 2024.
FIFA World Cup Records
Messi participated in six FIFA World Cups from 2006 to 2026, scoring 21 goals in 34 matches, making him the second-highest goal-scorer in the tournament's history, just behind Kylian Mbappe.
During the recent World Cup, he scored eight goals and provided four assists, including his first-ever World Cup hat-trick against Algeria.
Continuing Club Career
Despite his international retirement, Messi will continue to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS).