Argentina’s captain and global soccer icon Lionel Messi announced on Monday that he is retiring from the Argentina national team. The 39‑year‑old shared the decision in an Instagram post, explaining that after reflecting on the World Cup final and recent family tragedy, he felt the time had come to step aside.
Personal loss and heartfelt farewell
Messi wrote that the decision “hurts – and still hurts deep down,” but he understands it is the right moment. He added a personal note about his father’s passing, saying, “*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.*” Jorge Messi, Lionel’s father, died earlier this month at a hospital in Rosario, the central Argentine city where the family resides.
Career highlights and legacy
Over a storied 207‑match career, Messi became Argentina’s all‑time leading goalscorer with 125 goals. He helped the nation capture its third World Cup title in 2022, a dramatic shootout victory over France in Qatar, and added Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024 after a brief retirement in 2016.
The 2026 World Cup, Messi’s sixth tournament, saw Argentina reach the final against Spain, only to fall 1‑0 in extra time. In his farewell message, Messi praised the “brilliant young players” emerging through the ranks and expressed gratitude for the pride he felt wearing the national jersey.
Future outlook for Argentina
Messi will be 41 at the next major tournament, the 2028 Copa América, and 43 during the 2030 World Cup, which will feature a match in Argentina alongside host nations Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. His departure opens a pathway for the next generation of Argentine talent to lead the team on the world stage.
Club career continues
While Messi did not address his club future in the post, he remains under contract with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer through 2025. He scored four goals in his most recent MLS match on Saturday, indicating he will continue to contribute at the club level for at least the next two seasons.
Message to fans
Messi concluded his statement with a heartfelt thank you, saying, “I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, together with my teammates, moments we could only have dreamed of. Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Come on, Argentina!”
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
