In a deeply personal Instagram announcement on Monday, Argentine captain Lionel Messi declared his retirement from the Argentina national soccer team. The 39‑year‑old, who has become a global icon of the sport, said the decision “hurt — and still hurts deep down,” but that he understands “the time has come.”
Family loss and final reflections
Messi’s post referenced the recent death of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away earlier this month at a hospital in Rosario at age 68. “I wrote these words on July 21st, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before,” Messi wrote, underscoring how his family’s loss reinforced his resolve to step away from international duties.
He added, “I swear to you that I always gave it my all — not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.”
Career highlights
Messi leaves the Albiceleste as the nation’s all‑time leading scorer and most‑capped player, with 125 goals in 207 appearances. He guided Argentina to its third World Cup title in 2022, a dramatic penalty‑shootout victory over France in Qatar, and added a Copa América championship in 2021 after previously retiring in 2016 following a series of final defeats.
The 2026 World Cup, held across North America, marked Messi’s sixth tournament. Argentina reached the final, pulling off two miraculous comeback wins before falling 1‑0 in extra time to Spain. Messi finished his World Cup career with 21 goals, second only to France’s Kylian Mbappé, who sits at 22.
Club future remains open
While Messi’s Instagram message focused on his national team future, he did not address his club situation. The Inter Miami star has been a key figure in Major League Soccer since joining in 2023 and scored four goals in his most recent league match on Saturday. Fans will be watching closely to see whether he continues with Miami, seeks a new challenge, or eventually hangs up his boots.
Legacy and impact
Messi’s retirement closes a chapter that has defined a generation of Argentine soccer. His skill, humility, and dedication have inspired countless young players and brought a sense of pride to a nation that cherishes the sport as part of its cultural fabric. As families across Argentina and the broader soccer community reflect on his contributions, many will remember the moments when Messi lifted the nation’s spirits, from his early debut to his record‑breaking goal tally.
For now, the Argentine football federation will begin the process of naming a new captain and planning for the next cycle of international competition. The transition will be watched closely by fans, coaches, and analysts who hope to build on the foundation Messi helped establish.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
