Lionel Messi announces retirement from international football for Argentina
Lionel Messi has officially retired from international football following Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final. The 39-year-old concludes a 21-year career with the national team, citing the need to make room for younger players.
Why it matters
Marks the end of an era for one of the most decorated players in the history of international football.
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football with immediate effect.
The 39-year-old captained Argentina to the final of last month’s World Cup in New York, but he was unable to prevent his nation losing 1-0 to Spain and it proved to be the final match of his international career.
Handed a senior Argentina debut at the age of 18, Messi went on to play 207 times for his country and scored 125 goals with his crowning moment arriving in 2022 when he led his team to a third World Cup triumph.
“After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the national team,” Messi said on Instagram.
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