"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deep down - but I understand that the time has come," said Lionel Messi.
"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deep down - but I understand that the time has come," said Lionel Messi.
Argentina's Lionel Messi after the World Cup final against Spain, on Jul 19, 2026. (Photo: Reuters/Agustin Marcarian)
31 Aug 2026 11:29PM
(Updated: 31 Aug 2026 11:33PM)
BUENOS AIRES: Lionel Messi, who captained Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022 and the final in 2026, said on Monday (Aug 31) in a post on Instagram that he would be leaving Argentina's national team.
Lionel Messi retires from Argentina’s international team
Lionel Messi announces retirement from international football for Argentina
‘The time has come’: Argentine great Lionel Messi retires from international football
It ‘hurts’ says Messi as he retires from international football
‘It hurts deep in my soul’: Messi retires from international football
Lionel Messi says he is retiring from playing for Argentina
Lionel Messi announces retirement from international football
Lionel Messi Says He's Retiring From Playing For Argentina
Lionel Messi announces Argentina retirement
Lionel Messi says retiring from international football
