Casablanca – Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an emotional end to a 20-year journey with the Argentina national team.
The Argentine captain shared the decision in a lengthy Instagram post, explaining that while stepping away from the national team was painful, he believes the time has come to close the chapter.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deeply, but I understand that the time has come,” Messi wrote.
‘I have nothing more left to give”
Messi admitted that the decision was particularly difficult because of his deep connection with the national team.
“There is not much time left, and chapters are beginning to close, and this is one that hurts me deeply,” he wrote, adding that he will always love representing Argentina.
The forward also acknowledged the emergence of a new generation of players, saying that there are “some great young players coming through who deserve their chance.”
Messi said he feels he has emptied the tank after years of international competition.
A 20-year international journey
Messi thanked Argentina’s supporters for the love they have shown him throughout his two decades with the national team.
He also expressed his gratitude to his family, coaches, teammates, and officials who accompanied him during what he described as a beautiful but difficult journey.
“I am taking with me unforgettable memories and moments,” Messi wrote.
His international career included some of Argentina’s most significant successes, culminating in the country’s World Cup triumph in Qatar and further major honors with the national team.
Messi reveals when he made the decision
The Argentina star also provided additional context surrounding his announcement, revealing that he had originally written the message on July 21, two days after the 2026 World Cup final.
However, Messi said that his father’s passing subsequently reinforced his decision to step away from international football.
Messi ended his message by thanking God for making him Argentine and reaffirming his support for the national team from outside the pitch.
“Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Let’s go, Argentina!
