Lionel Messi Retires From International Football, Ending Historic 21-Year Argentina Career

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA — Argentine icon Lionel Messi has officially called time on his international career, bringing an end to a 21-year tenure in the blue-and-white shirt of La Albiceleste.

​The 39-year-old superstar made his official announcement via social media, revealing that he had originally prepared his farewell statement on July 21, two days after leading Argentina to the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi shared the news with fans following the passing of his father, Jorge, earlier in August.

​"I gave everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here," Messi stated in his statement. "I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you—alongside my teammates—moments we once only dreamed of."

​Messi steps away as Argentina's all-time leading scorer with 125 goals in 207 appearances. His international trophy tally includes the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and the 2024 Copa América. He continues to play club football with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

​CAREER STATS & INTERNATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

​International Caps: 207 appearances for Argentina

​International Goals: 125 goals (all-time national team record)

​Major Trophies: FIFA World Cup (2022), Copa América (2021, 2024), CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions (2022), Olympic Gold Medal (2008)

​World Cup Record: 21 goals in 34 appearances across six tournament editions (2006–2026)