Lionel Messi just dropped a bombshell, officially retiring from international football and bringing an end to his incredible 21-year run with Argentina. The 39-year-old maestro confirmed his decision in a truly emotional statement he posted on Instagram on Monday, telling the world he’d reached that point where he honestly had “nothing more to give.” It’s tough to hear, but you gotta respect it when a legend knows it’s time to make way for the next wave.
Messi’s Emotional Goodbye: “It Hurts In My Soul”
Seriously, reading his statement, you can feel the weight of that decision. Messi wrote that after the final, he’d been thinking about it a ton, and it was time to let everyone know he’s stepping away from the national team. He called it a choice that “hurt and still hurts in my soul,” but he knows deep down it’s the right time. He swore he always gave everything, not just in these last few years when they “won everything,” but even before that. He fought and gave everything for that shirt, man, just to bring joy and make Argentines proud through football.
He straight up said there isn’t much time left and chapters are closing, and this one “hurts me deeply.” He loves, loved, and will always love being with the national team, saying he gave all he had. But he also acknowledged some “great young players coming through who deserve to be there.” He thanked everyone for the love over 20 years, admitting he’ll miss hearing them from inside the team. Now, he’ll be one of them, supporting from the outside, “always , in the good times and the bad, even more so.” Major shout-outs went to his family, every coach, teammate, and director. He’s taking unforgettable memories and moments with him, leaving with “peace of mind and pride” for the moments they dreamed of. “It was crazy to have lived it with you. I love you! Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!” What a send-off.
The Legacy: World Cups, Copas, And A Defining Career
It turns out Messi actually wrote those words on July 21, just two days after Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain. He added a note saying, “Today, after what happened with my father, I am more convinced than ever.” This announcement follows the incredibly sad news of his father and long-time agent, Jorge Messi, passing away earlier this month. Messi had already mentioned having doubts about continuing his playing career after that loss.
This decision wraps up one of the greatest international careers in football history, no doubt about it. Messi first played for Argentina way back in 2005. Since then, he racked up some insane wins: the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup, and another Copa América in 2024. He even led Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, where they fell 1-0 to Spain after extra time. He’s not just leaving, he’s leaving as Argentina’s all-time record goalscorer and appearance maker, totally defining his country’s golden generation. Now, the big question is, who steps up for Argentina when the next generation truly takes over? Messi said he’ll be cheering from the outside, and you know he means it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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