Messi announces the end of his career at the international level in football, marking the end of one of the greatest footballing careers for the national team of Argentina. The Argentine football great made this announcement after the loss to Spain in the finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He stated that he had been contemplating retirement ever since the final match but the death of his father, Jorge Messi, has only added more reason for him to make such an important decision. This marks the end of an incredible career for the star in international football that saw him win a world cup title along with two Copas America titles.
Lionel Messi Confirms His Retirement From Argentina
Messi’s decision was released through an emotional announcement on social media platforms. According to him, the decision was difficult for him because he realized that it was the right time to leave the team.
According to the Argentina captain, he had always played for the country with all he had in him. He further stated that a new group of young and talented players needed a chance with the national team.
2026 World Cup Final Became Messi’s Last International Match
The last game that Messi played for Argentina was the 2026 FIFA World Cup final match between Argentina and Spain. Argentina lost the match 1-0 and thus concluded their campaign at the second position while retiring Messi from his international career.
There are claims that Messi had penned down his farewell letter soon after the match but did not make the announcement straight away.
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Messi Leaves Argentina With A Historic International Record
Lionel Messi ends his international career with a record number of appearances for the country and becoming the highest scorer for his nation. Messi has made 207 appearances and netted 125 goals for the national team. The highlight of Messi's career is the victory at the FIFA World Cup in 2022, where Argentina beat France in the final to lift the trophy.
He also helped Argentina win the Copa América in both 2021 and 2024, thus having a successful stint with the national team. His international career had been filled with disappointments for many years before he managed to turn things around and become a part of a legend of the modern game.
Death Of Messi’s Father Added To The Emotional Decision
Messi announced his retirement from the national team just days after his father, Jorge Messi, passed away in early August. The player had already been unsure about his future because of this situation. He went on to explain that “what happened with my father has made me more sure that retiring from international football is the right choice.”
While Messi will no longer play for Argentina, his professional career in football may not be over just yet. He has a contract with the American club Inter Miami until at least the 2028 MLS season.
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