Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national football team on Monday via his Instagram account.
The departure of one of the most decorated players in history marks the end of an era for Argentine football and the global game.
Messi said he understood that the time had come to step away after a career that lasted between 20 [1] and 21 years [5]. The 39-year-old [6] forward said the decision was a painful one.
"It was a decision that hurts — and still hurts deeply — but I understand that the time has come," Messi said.
During his international tenure, Messi made 142 appearances [3]. Reports on his total goal count for the national team vary, with figures ranging from 98 [1] to 125 [2].
Messi participated in six World Cups [7]. While he previously secured the World Cup title in 2022 [8], his final appearance in the tournament ended with a 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final [9].
The announcement comes as a culmination of a career defined by consistent excellence at the highest level of international competition. Messi's influence on the pitch helped lead Argentina to multiple championships, cementing his legacy as a national icon.
“"It was a decision that hurts — and still hurts deeply — but I understand that the time has come."”
Messi's retirement forces Argentina to transition into a new tactical era without their primary playmaker. While the team has integrated younger talent, the loss of Messi's leadership and scoring ability creates a void that will be felt heading into the next qualification cycle.
