Football legend Lionel Messi on Monday, August 31, announced the end of his international career with the Argentina national team. This comes weeks after the Albiceleste‘s defeat in the World Cup final, as well as the death of his father and agent, Jorge Messi.
«After the final, time has passed, and after much reflection, I want to announce to everyone that I am ending my career with the national team. This is a decision that still causes me deep pain, but I understand that the time has come», — the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner wrote in his Instagram account.
«I don’t have much time left, the stages are changing, and this one is particularly painful. I love, have loved, and will always love the national team. I have given everything; I have nothing more to give, and very good young players are coming behind me who deserve their place», — he continued.
Previous announcements of retirement and returns
Deeply affected by his father’s death, Messi had previously announced his international retirement in 2016 before returning to the national team for the 2018 World Cup and then winning the tournament four years later in Qatar.
Recently, aside from the defeat in the final against Spain on July 19, the Argentine had also been grieving the death of his father, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68. In mid‑August, he stated that he no longer saw himself on the field «for much longer».
International achievements and setbacks
During his final international tournament, the former Barcelona star delivered an outstanding performance for Argentina, leading the team to the final and scoring 8 goals, including a hat‑trick. However, in the final match Messi was unable to make an impact, and Argentina lost 1‑0 to Spain in extra time. Messi had also suffered defeat in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany (1‑0 in extra time).
Beyond the World Cup, his achievements with the Argentina national team include two Copa América titles (2021, 2024), Olympic gold (2008), the Finalissima (2022) and the U‑20 World Cup championship (2005).
His successes with the national team have secured his place in the pantheon of Argentine football alongside his idol, Diego Maradona.
His club career continues: the 39‑year‑old Lionel Messi scored four goals last Saturday in Inter Miami‘s emphatic 7‑1 home victory over Montreal in the MLS, North America’s top soccer league. The win ended a five‑match winless streak for his team.
According to Libération
