Messi Announces Retirement from International Football

Buenos Aires, August 31 – Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, forward for Inter Miami CF, has announced his retirement from international football, closing the book on a storied career with the Argentina national team.

Decision Comes After World Cup Final, Deep Reflection

In a lengthy statement posted on his official social media accounts, Messi revealed that he had decided to step away from international duty with Argentina following the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, after a period of careful reflection.

The former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star described the decision as painful, admitting that it still weighs on him deeply, even as he affirmed that the timing was right.

Messi Reflects on Years of Dedication to the National Team

Messi stressed that he had given the national team everything he had — not only in recent years, which brought major triumphs, but throughout his entire international career. He said his commitment to representing Argentina was driven by a desire to bring joy and pride to fans across the country.

A Career Defined by Historic Achievements

Messi's international honours include two Copa América titles, won in 2021 and 2024, as well as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. His international career came to a close with Argentina finishing runners-up in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, having lost 1-0 to Spain.

Source: QNA