Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a 20-year Argentina career that included a World Cup triumph, two Copa América titles and a record 207 appearances for his country. Messi said the decision had been on his mind since the World Cup final defeat to Spain, before the death of his father further convinced him it was time to step away. The 39-year-old revealed the decision in a statement posted on his official Instagram account, confirming that he would no longer wear the Argentina jersey after one of the most celebrated international careers in football history.
Messi said the decision had been painful, particularly because of the emotional bond he has shared with the national team and Argentina’s supporters throughout his career. He led his country to the World Cup title in 2022 after years of near misses and also helped Argentina win two Copa América crowns. His international journey also included World Cup final defeats in 2014 and again this summer, with the loss to Spain in July proving to be a significant moment in his decision-making process.
