Argentina and Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his remarkable 21-year career with the national team.
The 39-year-old confirmed the decision on Monday, August 31, in an emotional message shared on social media, saying the decision was painful but that he believes the time has come to step away from the Argentina national team.
Messi made his senior Argentina debut in 2005 and leaves the national team as its most-capped player, with 207 appearances and 125 goals. His international career included two Copa América titles, the 2022 FIFA World Cup and another World Cup final appearance in 2026.
His final appearance for Argentina came in the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina lost 1–0 to Spain after extra time. The defeat came after Messi had led the country to the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, completing one of the biggest achievements of his career.
Messi’s retirement from Argentina does not, however, mean he has retired from football completely. He continues to play club football for Inter Miami, with his future at club level still separate from his decision to end his international career.
After more than two decades, one of football’s greatest international careers has officially come to an end.
