Argentina superstar Lionel Messi has decided to end his international football journey, bringing a remarkable 20-year association with the national team to a close.
The 39-year-old forward announced his decision through an emotional message on Instagram on Monday, explaining that he had initially made up his mind soon after the final.
According to Messi, the passing of his father later reinforced his belief that stepping aside was the appropriate choice.
“After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team.”
Although the decision was difficult for him, the Argentina captain said he had come to terms with the need to move on.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment,” Messi said.
Messi reflected on the enormous effort he had put into representing Argentina throughout his career. He pointed out that his dedication extended beyond the period in which the team enjoyed its most celebrated achievements.
“I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too,” he said.
“I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
“There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot,” he said.
“I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give.”
The veteran attacker also acknowledged the younger talents now emerging in Argentine football, suggesting that they should be allowed to take up important roles with the national side.
“Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here,” Messi added.
Looking back at his lengthy spell with Argentina, Messi expressed appreciation to the supporters who stood by him through both successful and difficult periods.
“Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones,” he said.
He also paid tribute to the relatives, coaches, teammates and officials who were part of his journey in the national colours.
Messi said he was ending his international career with satisfaction, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences he shared with his teammates and the Argentine public.
“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you. I love you!” he said.
The Argentine icon concluded his message by thanking God for making him Argentine before ending with, “Vamos Argentina!”
Messi revealed that the statement had actually been prepared on July 21, only two days after the final.
“Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced of this decision than before,” he added.
