For more than two decades, Messi was not simply Argentina’s best player. He became the central figure of the national team’s identity.

For more than two decades, Messi was not simply Argentina’s best player. He became the central figure of the national team’s identity.

Messi said he had already made the decision shortly after Argentina's 2026 World Cup final against Spain, but his father's death later strengthened his resolve to step away from…