Lionel Messi retires from Argentina duty with nothing left
Lionel Messi, 39, has retired from Argentina duty with 125 goals in 207 caps after losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Lionel Messi retires from international football at the age of 39
- Leaves as Argentina's record scorer and appearance maker with 125 goals in 207 caps
- States he has nothing left to give after a painful conclusion
- Will continue his club career with Inter Miami through 2028
Lionel Messi has officially retired from international duty with Argentina at the age of 39, stating that he has given everything to the national side and now has nothing left to offer after a storied career spanning two decades.
The decision follows Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final this summer. Messi revealed that he penned his retirement message on July 21, exactly two days after the heartbreaking loss in the tournament's climax.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Throughout his international journey, Messi cemented his legacy by becoming Argentina's all-time leading scorer with 125 goals and most-capped player with 207 appearances, highlighted by leading his country to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022.
His retirement also comes shortly after the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68 following a long illness in August, adding profound personal grief to a difficult period for the iconic forward.
"Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply."
Lionel Messi
Although his international chapter has concluded, Messi's club career will continue with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, where his current contract runs until the end of the 2028 season.
Messi's departure marks the definitive end of an era in international football, closing the chapter on his legendary rivalry and historic achievements with the Albiceleste. While MLS fans will enjoy his final years on the pitch, Argentina faces the immense task of moving forward without their talismanic leader.
Source: BBC Sport
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