Lionel Messi was the genius with the dancing feet who gave Argentina moments they had only dreamed of.
But after the crushing disappointment of ‘el ultimo tango’ at the World Cup, and the trauma of losing his father, came a sobering realisation.
He simply had nothing left to give.
📝 @OliverKay
🔗 https://t.co/EgR3QKdzu7
Lionel Messi has called time on his Argentina career.
After two decades, three World Cup finals and a historic 2022 triumph, the “little sorcerer” leaves international football as Argentina’s record appearance-maker and goalscorer.
@oliverbrown_tel reflects on the extraordinary legacy of a player who redefined the game – despite an ugly final chapter 👇
https://t.co/uNspIXpA90
"He always said one thing, 'when I cannot help, I'll be gone.'"
@GuillemBalague reacts to the news of Lionel Messi's retirement from international football for Argentina 🇦🇷
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football in a statement on Instagram.
Messi, who turned 39 in June, has retired having scored 125 goals in 207 internationals.
🔗: https://t.co/1833WYy8WY
Messi’s incredible numbers with the Argentina National Team following the announcement of his retirement from La Albiceleste 🇦🇷🐐
#beINSPORTS#Messi#LionelMessi
Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi announced that he is retiring from international play after more than two decades.
Messi is still expected to play in Major League Soccer in the U.S. through the end of the 2028 season. https://t.co/XxPfkkHUcb
Lionel Messi, considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time, announced Monday he would retire from competing internationally for Argentina’s national team, saying in a statement on Instagram the decision “hurts deep down,” but “the time has come.”
The little boy from Rosario, the pinnacle of football🙌🇦🇷
FIFA World Cup (2022)
2x World Cup Golden Ball (2014, 2022)
2nd All-time FIFA World Cup Goal Scorer (21)
2x Copa América (2021, 2024)
2x MVP Copa América (2015, 2021)
Olympic Games Gold Medal (2008)
Finalissima (2022)
U-20 World Cup (2005)
5x FIFA World Cup participant
6x Copa América participant
All-time top scorer of national teams in South America
Argentina's most capped player
Argentina's all-time leading goal scorer
207 Appearances
125 Goals
68 Assists
"The toughest thing for him... was filling the boots of Maradona... he's won."
The @ESPNFC crew react to Lionel Messi's retirement from international football.
NEW: Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from Argentina’s national team, ending a legendary international career that included six World Cups and the long-awaited 2022 World Cup title. “It was a decision that hurts and still hurts deeply, but I understand that the time has come,” Messi said.
Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006 and ultimately led Argentina to its first championship in 36 years. He will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
All-time goal scorer for Argentina✅
Most capped player for Argentina✅
Messi may be leaving International play, but he leaves behind an INCREDIBLE legacy and the accolades to match!👏
“I love, I loved, and I always will love being part of the national team.”
A truly exceptional international career comes to an end as Laureus Award winner Lionel Messi announces his retirement from the Argentina national team.
#SportUnitesUs