Lionel Messi has brought his remarkable international career to an end at the age of 39, closing one of the most decorated chapters in the history of Argentina football.
The Argentine superstar leaves the national team after 21 years at the highest level, having amassed a record 125 goals in 207 appearances. No player has represented Argentina more times or found the net more often for the country.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and 2022 World Cup champion, remained central to Argentina’s campaign this summer, captaining the team to the final and once again demonstrating the quality that has defined his career.
His decision comes weeks after he appeared to hint that his time with the national team was drawing to a close following the death of his father, Jorge, earlier in August.
Messi has now made the decision official in a statement shared on Instagram. He revealed that he had initially written the message on July 21, two days after the World Cup final, but his father’s death later strengthened his resolve.
“Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before.”
Messi’s international journey began 21 years ago and produced a haul that few players in football history can match. Beyond his goals and appearances, he leaves behind a legacy shaped by Argentina’s long-awaited World Cup triumph in 2022 and years of memorable performances in the national colours.
See his post below.
