The Definitive Farewell
Lionel Messi announced the end of his journey with the Argentine national team through a message on social media. At 39 years old, the striker revealed a decision that "hurts the soul" after more than two decades defending the blue-and-white jersey.
The text was written on July 21, right after the defeat in the World Cup final, but gained strength after the recent loss of his father, Jorge Messi, at 68.
Main Titles and Numbers
- 2022 World Cup in Qatar
- Two editions of the Copa América (2021 and 2024)
- 2022 Finalissima
- U-20 World Cup in 2005 and Olympic gold in 2008
In 207 matches for the senior team, the player scored 125 goals, overcoming early frustrations to become an absolute reference.
Personal Reasons and Future
Messi highlighted that new talents deserve space and that he no longer had the energy to continue. Since 2023, he has played for Inter Miami in the United States, where he renewed his contract until December 2028.
His national team career began in 2005, with a victory in a friendly against Hungary. After three consecutive runners-up finishes between 2014 and 2016, the star reconsidered and lived his most glorious years.
Tributes and Recognition
- AFA highlighted eternal gratitude
- FIFA and CONMEBOL publicly thanked him
- Teammates like Rodrigo De Paul praised his leadership and humanity
The farewell came after the 1-0 loss to Spain in the final, at the same MetLife Stadium where the 2016 defeat to Chile occurred.