«Inter Miami» forward Lionel Messi has announced that he is ending his career with the Argentina national team. The 39-year-old footballer made the announcement on his Instagram page.
Messi said the decision was painful for him, but he understands that the right time has come.
«This decision is painful for me and it still hurts, but I understand that now is the right time. I swear that I have always given my all to the Argentina national team — not only during the recent years when we achieved many victories, but also before that.
I have always loved playing for the national team and that will always remain the case. I gave everything I had to it, and I have nothing more left to give. In addition, there are wonderful young players coming behind me who deserve to be part of the national team. Thank you for all the love and support you have given me throughout these 20 years», the Argentine footballer said.
It was reported that Messi wrote these words on July 21, two days after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Lionel Messi had represented Argentina since 2005. With the national team, he won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa América titles (2021, 2024), and the 2022 Finalissima.
Messi played 207 matches and scored 125 goals for Argentina. In terms of goals scored for national teams, he ranks second in history behind Cristiano Ronaldo.
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