Lionel Messi has closed the Argentina chapter of a career that transformed the country's football history, leaving the national team after 21 years as its record scorer, most-capped player and a World Cup champion.
Messi, 39, announced his international retirement Aug. 31, two days after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in extra time in the 2026 World Cup final. He finished with 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina, both national records.
Messi said his decision had effectively been made after the World Cup final. The death of his father, Jorge Messi, earlier in August also reinforced his decision to step away.
"I have nothing left to give," Messi said in his farewell statement.
His retirement from international football does not end his playing career. Messi remains with Inter Miami of Major League Soccer, where he is under contract through 2028.
