In a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday, Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team. The 36‑year‑old forward said the decision “hurt – and still hurts deep down” but that he believes the time has come to step away from representing La Albiceleste.
Career highlights with the national side
Messi’s tenure with the national team is one of the most decorated in football history. He lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in 2022, finished as runner‑up in the 2014 and 2026 finals, and captured Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024. He also earned runner‑up medals in the 2007, 2015 and 2016 Copa América tournaments. Individually, Messi won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups and at the 2015 and 2021 Copa América competitions.
Personal challenges and the final decision
The announcement comes after a turbulent few weeks for the star. In December 2026, Argentina fell short in the World Cup final, losing to Spain in a dramatic match that left Messi in tears on the field. Shortly thereafter, Messi’s father and longtime agent, Jorge Messi, passed away. Messi described his father as a cornerstone of his career, supporting him through his rise at Barcelona, his moves to Paris Saint‑Germain and Inter Miami, and his World Cup triumph.
In his statement, Messi wrote that his father’s death reinforced his feeling that it was time to step away from international duty. He expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, teammates, and the Argentine faithful, saying, “Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.” He also promised to remain a supporter of the national team from the stands, cheering through both good times and bad.
Impact on Argentine soccer
Messi’s retirement marks the end of an era for a nation that has long looked to him as a symbol of pride and hope. Over the past decade, his performances helped lift a country that had endured long periods of disappointment on the world stage. Fans and former teammates alike praised his humility, work ethic, and dedication to the jersey.
While the national team will now look to the next generation of talent to fill the void, Messi’s legacy will endure in the memories of the countless goals, assists, and moments of brilliance he delivered for Argentina. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has not yet announced a formal farewell ceremony, but tributes are expected from fans, former players, and officials across the country.
What’s next for Messi?
Messi confirmed he will continue playing at the club level with Inter Miami, where he remains a marquee player in Major League Soccer. He also hinted at future involvement in charitable work and youth development programs, emphasizing his desire to give back to the community that supported him throughout his career.
As the soccer world reflects on Messi’s extraordinary contributions, his retirement from the national team serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of athletic greatness and the importance of family, faith, and gratitude.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
