Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football with Argentina after 207 appearances for the national team.
The 39-year-old, who made his debut in 2005, won the 2022 World Cup and two Copa América titles with Argentina. He was also a runner-up at the 2014 World Cup and the 2026 final.
In a statement, Messi said the decision was painful but necessary.
“It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come,” he said. “I swear to you that I always gave it my all – not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey.”
He added that he was proud to represent Argentina and believed young players now deserved the opportunity.
“Time is fleeting, chapters come to an end, and this is one that deeply affects me. I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to offer.”
Messi said doubts about his future increased after the death of his father, Jorge, earlier this month. He also revealed he struggled with fitness during Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain in July.
“My legs could no longer continue,” he stated. “This time I attempted to push myself beyond my physical limits, but I was unable to.”
The forward currently plays for Inter Miami, where his contract runs until 2028.
