Lionel Messi shocked everyone by suddenly retiring from international football. He announced his retirement by sharing a three-page letter in a social media post.
End of an Era: Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from Argentina National Team
Famous Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has retired from international football. He announced his retirement on Monday (August 31) in a three-page letter. The football world was stunned by Messi's sudden retirement. Messi's Argentina team had reached the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup—which concluded in July—but suffered a defeat against Spain.
Regarding his retirement, Messi wrote, 'After a long time and much reflection following the final, I want to tell everyone that I am retiring from the national team. It was a decision that caused me great sadness—and still causes me great pain—but I realize that this is the right time.'
I Gave It My All
Messi added, 'I swear I gave it my all—not just in the last few years when we won everything, but even before that. I always fought for this jersey and poured my heart and soul into it, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.'
He continued, 'There isn't much time left now, and several chapters of life are coming to a close. This is a moment that makes me very sad. I have always loved being part of the national team—and I always will. I have given everything I had, and now I have nothing left to give.'
Lionel Messi's International Career
Looking at Messi's international career, he made his debut in August 2005. Over the course of his career, he played 207 matches and scored 125 goals. Additionally, he provided 68 assists. Messi played a total of 17,120 minutes of international football. Under Messi's captaincy, Argentina won the 2022 FIFA World Cup title. Regarding his World Cup career, Messi played a total of 34 matches and scored 21 goals.
