Argentina great Messi announces international retirement

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football in a statement on Instagram.

Messi had previously hinted that he was ready to bring the curtain down on a 21-year-career with Argentina in the wake of his father's death at the start of August.

The 39-year-old Argentina captain helped Argentina to this summer's World Cup final where they lost to Spain, having won the tournament in 2022.

He confirmed that he is now calling time on his international career in a statement that read: "I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring from the National Team...

"It is a decision that hurt, and still hurts, to my core, but I understand that it's the right time. I swear that I always gave my all, not just in the last few years when we won everything, but before that too. I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you proud to be Argentinian through football.

"There's not much time left, and chapters are closing, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, loved, and will always love being on the National Team. I've given everything I have; I have nothing more to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there.

"Thank you for all the love and support over these 20 years. I'm going to miss hearing you all from the inside. Now I'll be just one of you, cheering and supporting you from the sidelines (through thick and thin, even more so).

"Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful but difficult journey. Thank you to each and every coach, teammate, and manager I had the pleasure of sharing this experience with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments."