Miami, USA – Argentine star Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football after a glittering career with his national team. He confirmed that his decision came after a long period of reflection and that he no longer has anything to offer in the “Albiceleste” jersey.
Messi revealed his decision in a heartfelt message posted on his official Instagram account. In it, he spoke about his long journey with the Argentine national team and the moments he shared with fans and teammates over nearly 20 years.
The Argentina captain said: “After all this time that has passed since the final and after much thought, I want to inform everyone that I am retiring from playing with the national team”.
He added: “It was a painful decision and it still hurts deep down, but I realize the time has come. I swear I have always given it my all, not only in recent years when we achieved everything, but before that as well”.
Messi continued: “I have always fought and given everything I have for this shirt, to bring you joy and to make you feel proud to be Argentinians through football”.
The Argentine star explained that time was a major factor behind his decision. He said, “There isn’t much time left, and life’s phases begin to end, and this is one of the most painful phases for me”.
He added: “I loved, I love, and I always will love representing the national team. I have given everything I have and I have nothing left to offer, and there are great players coming who deserve to take their place”.
Messi addressed a message of thanks to the Argentine fans, saying: “Thank you for all the love you have given me over these 20 years. I will greatly miss hearing your cheers while I am on the field”.
He added: “And now I will be one of you, cheering on the national team and supporting it always from the outside, in good times and bad, and even more so in difficult times”.
The Argentine captain also made sure to thank his family, coaches, teammates, and administrators who accompanied him throughout his time with the national team. He affirmed that he would cherish the unforgettable memories and moments he shared with them.
Messi concluded his message by saying: “I leave reassured and proud that with my colleagues we gave you moments that were like a dream. It was crazy to live all of that with you. I love you all… Thank God for making me Argentine.. Come on, Argentina”.
Messi revealed that the letter was written on July 21, two days after the final. He also explained that what happened to his father made him even more convinced of his decision to retire.
Messi has played 207 matches for the Argentine national team, scoring 125 goals and providing 68 assists.
During his international career, Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup. He also won two Copa America titles, as well as the 2022 Final Essema.
