By Ogungbayi Adeyemi S. | adeyemi@ddnewsonline.com
Editor, DDNews |
Argentina – August 31, 2026
Argentina great Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, saying it was a decision that “hurt” but he understands “the time has come.”
The 39-year-old, who captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, has scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.
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In a statement on Instagram, Messi said he has given everything to the national side, but now he has “nothing left to give.”
The Inter Miami star’s decision brings an end to one of the most decorated international careers in football history. Messi led Argentina to the 2021 Copa América title, the 2022 Finalissima and the historic 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar, finally ending the country’s long wait for a third world title.
He also guided La Albiceleste to the 2024 Copa América title in the United States.
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Messi’s international journey began in 2005 and spanned more than two decades of brilliance, leadership and countless memorable moments for Argentine football.
His retirement from the national team leaves a massive void for Argentina as the country looks ahead to future competitions without its greatest ever player.
While Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, his decision marks the end of an era for both Argentina and world football.
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Football fans across the globe have begun paying tributes to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, describing him as one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.
By Akai Akeobong
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