Lionel Messi: “I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring internationally”

Lionel Messi and Argentina, it’s over. The Argentine genius, finalist of the last 2026 World Cup, announced the end of his international career on August 31, 2026.

A huge page is turning, undoubtedly the most beautiful, in the history of Argentina. Lionel Messi has decided to hang up his boots with the Albiceleste. In a long post on his social networks, the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner justified his choice.

“ I wrote these words on July 21, two days after the final. Today, after what happened to my father, I am even more convinced than before. After all this time since the final, after thinking about it a lot, I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring internationally… It’s a decision that hurt me and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that it’s the time. I swear to you that I always gave everything “, we can read in particular.

Lionel Messi continued: “I have always fought and given everything for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you proud to be Argentinians through football. There is little time left and the chapters are closing little by little. This one is particularly painful for me. I love, I loved and I will always love to be part of the selection. I have emptied myself, I have nothing left to give, and behind them come very great young players who deserve to be there. Thank you for all the love you have given me over these 20 years. »

An XXL prize list

With Argentina, Lionel Messi experienced some disillusionment at the start (defeats in the final of the Copa America and the 2014 World Cup). Nevertheless, he went on to triumph, winning the 2022 World Cup and the last two editions of the Copa America.

Lionel Messi is also the top scorer in Argentina’s history with 125 goals in 227 appearances.

OBN