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Lionel Messi retires from the Argentina national team

Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from the Argentina national team. The 39-year-old superstar reflects on a successful era.

31 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Lionel Messi retires from the Argentina national team — Archive photoPhoto: Unknown author Unknown author · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

Lionel Messi has played his final match for the Argentina national team and announced his retirement from international duty. The announcement was made via his Instagram account. The 39-year-old forward stated that the decision was difficult, but he feels it is the right time to step away.

Messi, who made his debut for the national team in 2005, retires with impressive statistics. In 207 international matches, he scored 125 goals and led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup. This was a highlight of his career, following a loss in the final four years earlier.

The news of Messi's retirement was quickly received and discussed both in Argentina and internationally. Many fans and media representatives view this announcement as the end of a significant era in Argentine football.

In his farewell words, Messi expressed that the decision to retire from the national team has deeply affected him. Despite the weight of his decision, he also conveyed an understanding that the time has come to embark on a new path.

The reaction to Messi's retirement was characterized by both sorrow and gratitude. Many supporters praised him for his accomplishments and tireless dedication to the national team.

Messi's retirement marks a turning point not only for him but also for the Argentina national football team, which must now move forward without its all-time leading scorer and his extraordinary experience and skills.

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