Edi Umoh
Argentine football legend, Lionel Messi announced, on Monday, his retirement from international football after earning 207 caps.
Messi, who debuted for Argentina in 2005, won the World Cup in 2022 and was a runner-up in 2026 and 2014.
In addition, the 39-year-old had secured two Copa América titles.
Wiring in an Instagram, he said: “It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come. 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, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
Also read
- Men’s Ballon d’Or: Lionel Messi wins eighth award
- 2023 Ballon d’Or: Messi, Haaland And Bonmati Lead others
- Messi Ends Trophy Drought As Argentina Beat Brazil To Win Copa América
“Time is fleeting, chapters come to an end, and this is one that deeply affects me. I love, have loved, and will always cherish being part of the national team. I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to offer, and moreover, there are some exceptional young players emerging who deserve this opportunity.”
Messi added that following the passing of his father, Jorge, this month, he had considerable doubts about whether he would continue for much longer.
He also stated the extent of his struggles during Argentina’s World Cup final loss 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.”
Messi currently plays for Inter Miami, where his contract extends until 2028.
It was expected to be Messi’s final appearance at the tournament, given he will turn 43 during the next tournament in 2030.
Messi’s father Jorge passed away within weeks of the tournament ending in his hometown of Rosario following a long illness. He had previously acted as his son’s agent.
He said of the final, which his father was unable to attend: “I wanted to win it so I could bring the trophy to you and show you a new one. I couldn’t, my legs had nothing left. This time I tried to push past my physical limits, but I couldn’t. I never managed to feel right.
“I am going to miss you a lot, but you will always be present, and especially in the education of my children, because I teach them and educate them as you did with me.
“Rest in peace and take care of us from above like you did here. Thanks for everything. I love you, dad.”
