In brief
Lionel Messi has officially retired from international football, stating he has "nothing left to give" to his national squad. The 39‑year‑old, who won the World Cup in 2022, leaves a record 125 goals in 207 caps, making him the country’s most prolific scorer. His decision follows the death of his father and the emotional toll of recent defeats. While he will continue playing club football for Inter Miami until 2028, he plans to step back from the national team to give younger talents a chance.
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, describing the decision as painful yet inevitable. After leading Argentina to a World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022, the 39‑year‑old will conclude his national career having scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, the record for any player in the nation's history.
In a heartfelt statement, Messi said he has given everything to the national side but now has "nothing left to give" and that younger players deserve a chance. The announcement comes amid personal hardships, including the death of his father, and the emotional aftermath of recent international defeats.
While he will continue playing club football, primarily with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami until the 2028 season, Messi’s decision marks the end of an era for Argentine fans and the broader football community. His legacy as a record‑holding scorer and key figure in Argentina’s most successful era remains indelible.
