Lionel Messi Announces Retirement From International Football

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his two-decade career with the national team.

Messi, in a statement, said the decision was painful but that he believes the time is right to step away from international football.

“After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team,” Messi said.

The 39-year-old forward said he had always given his best for Argentina, both during the team’s recent period of success and before the major trophies arrived.

“I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football,” he said.

Messi acknowledged that his departure was difficult, stressing that he had always loved representing Argentina.

“There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give,” he added.

He also pointed to the emergence of younger players who, he said, deserve the opportunity to represent the country.

Messi thanked Argentine supporters for their love and backing throughout his 20 years with the national team, saying he would continue to support Argentina from outside the pitch.

He also expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, teammates and directors who accompanied him throughout his international career.

“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you. I love you!” Messi said.

The Argentina captain ended his statement with a message of gratitude, saying: “Thank you God for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!”

Messi revealed that he originally wrote the statement on July 21, two days after the final, but said recent events involving his father had further strengthened his decision to retire from international football.