Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing a definitive end to his two-decade journey wearing the Argentina jersey. The legendary forward reached this difficult conclusion after extensive reflection, determining that the time has finally come to step away from the national squad.
In an emotional message shared on social media, Messi admitted that the decision was incredibly painful to make. He noted that while the choice felt heartbreaking, he recognized it as the necessary moment to move on. Reflecting on his commitment, he stated, “It is a decision that broke my heart and still causes me pain, but I realize this is the moment. I have always given everything I had. Not just in the last few years when we won everything, but long before that, I fought for this shirt.”
Expressing his enduring affection for the team, Messi remarked, “I love being in the national team, I have loved it, and I will always love it. I have exhausted myself completely. There is nothing left to give. Furthermore, there are some fantastic young players coming up behind me who deserve their place in the national team.” He penned the formal announcement on July 21, two days after the final, though he finalized his decision to step aside following the loss of his father.
Messi extended his deepest gratitude to the Argentine supporters, acknowledging their two decades of unwavering love and backing. He admitted that he would greatly miss the roar of the crowd from within the pitch. Promising to remain a loyal supporter from the sidelines, he added, “Now I will become one of you. I will always support and encourage you from the outside—in good times and, even more so, in difficult times.”
Throughout his farewell, the football icon expressed appreciation for his family, as well as the former and current coaches, teammates, and officials who supported him throughout his tenure. He noted that he would cherish the memories of their time together for the rest of his life. Taking pride in the successes achieved with Argentina, he highlighted the joy of delivering dream moments to the fans as a career highlight. Concluding his message with a final tribute to his homeland, he wrote, “Thank God for making me an Argentine. Let’s go, Argentina!”
