Argentina legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, he said via an Instagram post on Monday.
The little magician from Rosario ends his international career with 125 goals and 68 assists from 207 appearances. His 21-year career’s pinnacle would undoubtedly be lifting the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, a final which saw him bag a hat-trick.
“After this time that has passed since the final, after much thought, I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring from the National Team…,” the Inter Miami forward began.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts to my core, but I understand that it’s the right time. I swear that I always gave my all, not only in the last few years when we won everything, but also before, and I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentinian through football.
“There’s not much time left, and chapters are closing, and this is one that hurts me a lot. I love, loved, and will always love being on the National Team. I’ve given everything; I have nothing more to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there.
“Thank you, God, for making me Argentinian,” he signed off.
This is the second time that the former Barcelona forward has announced his retirement from international football. The first time he hung his Argentina national team boots was back in 2016 after, as captain, he failed to win three consecutive finals. However, he soon reversed his decision.
Messi, in his announcement post, also mentioned that this decision was made just two days after the FIFA World Cup 2026 final where Argentina lost to Spain. However, after his father Jorge Messi’s passing, he said his mind had become much clearer on this matter.
Published on Aug 31, 2026
