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Messi Announces Emotional Farewell from Argentina National Team
Argentina captain and football superstar Lionel Messi has announced his decision to retire from international football, bringing the curtain down on a career with the national team that has spanned more than two decades.
Image: Collected
Messi shared the emotional announcement in a lengthy message posted on his verified social media account on Monday, August 31.
In his farewell message, Messi said he had made the decision after giving it considerable thought. Reflecting on his time wearing the Argentina shirt, he said he had always tried to give his absolute best for the national team and now feels he has nothing more to offer.
He also said he wanted to step aside and make room for the younger generation of Argentine footballers coming through the ranks.
Messi revealed that he had written his farewell message on July 21, two days after the 2026 World Cup final. However, he said the death of his father later strengthened his resolve to leave the national team.
The Argentine icon expressed his gratitude to the country's supporters for standing by him throughout the past 20 years. He also thanked his family, coaches, teammates and national team officials for their support throughout his international career.
Messi's time with Argentina has been defined by historic success. Under his leadership, Argentina won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles. He was also part of the Argentina side that won Olympic gold at the 2008 Beijing Games.
At the end of his farewell message, Messi delivered an emotional tribute to his country, writing: “Thank God for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina.”
After more than 20 years of representing Argentina, Messi's decision to step away from international football marks the end of one of the most remarkable chapters in the history of the national team and has left fans around the world deeply emotional.