39-year-old who captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 has scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player. In a statement, Messi says he gave everything to the national side, but now there is nothing left to give. He says time is running short and the chapter is coming to a close, and this is one he hurts the most. I love what I gave and will always love being part of the national team. I will give it all and have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some really great young players coming through behind me who deserve their chance.
Earlier in August, Messi said he was considering this future in football after the death of his father. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he wrote his retirement message on 21 July, two days after Argentina lost to Spain in this summer’s World Cup final. He added on Instagram on Monday: Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced than before. His career will continue at club level with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami, where he has a contract that runs to the end of the 2028 season.
Messi posted on Instagram Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside through the good times and the bad, especially the bad. Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this journey so beautiful, yet so difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I’ve shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments. I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, alongside my teammates, moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all.
Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.
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