Messi calls time on international career

Lionel Messi has called time on his legendary Argentina career, saying the decision “hurt” but acknowledging that he has reached the point where “the time has come”.

The 39-year-old superstar, who lifted the World Cup with Argentina in Qatar in 2022, announced his international retirement in a statement on Instagram.

Messi leaves the national team as its all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, having scored 125 goals in 207 appearances for La Albiceleste.

“I have given everything to the national team,” Messi said, explaining that he now has “nothing left to give”.

His decision comes after Argentina's 2026 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, with the reigning champions beaten by Spain.

For a player whose international journey was once marked by heartbreak and near misses, Messi's career with Argentina ultimately delivered the ultimate prize in Qatar.

He went on to cement his status as one of the greatest players in football history, adding World Cup glory to a remarkable international résumé.

Now, after more than two decades representing Argentina, Messi has decided the curtain has finally come down on his international career.

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