BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (Diya TV) — Lionel Messi is retiring from Argentina’s national soccer team after nearly two decades in the national colors. The decision ends one of the most remarkable international careers in soccer history.
Messi, 39, represented Argentina at six World Cups. He finally reached the top in 2022, when he led Argentina to the World Cup title in Qatar. Four years later, he helped the team reach another final before Spain defeated Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Messi announced his decision in a post on Instagram. He said the choice caused him deep pain. However, he believes the time has come to step away from international soccer.
“I swear to you that I always gave it my all,” Messi wrote. He said he fought for the Argentina jersey throughout his career. He also thanked fans for supporting him through victories and difficult moments.
The retirement announcement comes shortly after the death of Messi’s father, Jorge Messi. His father died Aug. 8 at age 68. Messi said the loss affected him deeply and made him question his future in soccer.
Messi revealed that he wrote his retirement letter June 21. That came two days after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final. He said his father’s death later made him even more certain about his decision.
“After everything with my dad, I am even more convinced than before,” Messi wrote.
Messi made his Argentina senior team debut in 2006. Since then, he has become the country’s most recognizable soccer star. He also helped Argentina win the Copa America and the World Cup during a highly successful period for the national team.
Messi became a central figure in the team for almost 20 years. Moreover, millions of fans around the world connected with his performances in the blue and white jersey.
In his farewell message, Messi thanked Argentina supporters for their love over the past 20 years. He said he would miss hearing their voices from inside the stadium.
“Now I’m going to be one of you,” Messi wrote, saying he would cheer for Argentina from outside the team.
Messi also reflected on the memories he created with his teammates and supporters. He said those experiences once seemed like dreams. Now, he leaves international soccer with pride and peace of mind.
Although Messi will no longer play for Argentina, his professional club career continues. He currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Before joining the Miami club, he spent 17 seasons with Barcelona and later played for Paris Saint-Germain.
Messi did not announce a retirement from professional soccer altogether. Therefore, he could continue playing at the club level after leaving Argentina’s national team.
