Messi, 39, announced his decision on August 31, saying he felt the time had come to step away after giving everything to the national team. The Argentina captain had written his farewell message on July 21, two days after Argentina lost 1–0 to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. He later shared it publicly following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, on August 8.
His decision has prompted an outpouring of emotion across Argentina. Fans say they will miss not only his footballing brilliance but also his humility and the connection he developed with generations of supporters. Many Argentines regard Messi as one of the greatest figures in the country's sporting history.
Messi leaves the national team as Argentina's record appearance-maker and leading goalscorer. During his international career, he won the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa América, while also helping Argentina reach the 2026 World Cup final.
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The Argentine Football Association has paid tribute to Messi, describing his two decades with the national team as an extraordinary chapter in the country's football history. Although fans have called for his famous No. 10 shirt to be retired, FIFA regulations currently prevent Argentina from permanently retiring the number.
