Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from Argentina National Team

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his remarkable 20-year career with the Argentina national team.

The 39-year-old made the announcement today, August 31, saying he has reached a point where he has nothing more to give to the national team.

Messi said the decision was painful, but he believes it is the right time to step away and allow younger players to take his place.

He said:

“After this time that has passed since the final, thinking about it a lot, I want to inform everyone that I am retiring from the National Team…”

Messi admitted that leaving Argentina still hurts him, but said he has always given everything for the national team jersey.

“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts in my soul, but I understand that this is the moment. I swear I always gave everything, not just the last few years when everything was won, and I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, for giving them joy and making them proud to be Argentinians through football.”

The Argentina captain also said he believes a new generation of talented players deserves an opportunity.

“There is little left and chapters are closing, and this one hurts me a lot. I loved, loved, and will always love being in the National Team. I emptied myself, I no longer have anything more to give, and besides, there are very great young players coming up who deserve to be here.”

Messi thanked Argentina supporters for their love throughout his 20 years with the national team and said he will now support the team from outside.

“Thank you for all the love over these 20 years. I will miss hearing from you from the inside a lot. Now I will be one of you, always cheering and supporting from the outside.”

He also thanked his family, coaches, teammates and team officials for supporting him throughout his career.

Messi leaves the national team with a remarkable collection of memories and major trophies, including the 2021 Copa América, 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa América.

Reflecting on his journey, he said:

“I am leaving with the peace and pride of having given them, together with my teammates, dream moments. It was crazy to have lived it with you. I love you!”

He ended his emotional message with a tribute to his country:

“Thank you God for making me Argentine.”

“Go Argentina!”