Lionel Messi has retired from international football at 39, ending a remarkable 21-year career with Argentina just weeks after leading the team to the 2026 World Cup final. He leaves as the nation’s record appearance holder and top scorer.

Lionel Messi has retired from international football at 39, ending a remarkable 21-year career with Argentina just weeks after leading the team to the 2026 World Cup final. He leaves as the nation’s record appearance holder and top scorer.

The 39-year-old captained Argentina to the final of last month’s World Cup in New York, but he was unable to prevent his nation from losing 1-0 to Spain, and it proved to be the final match of his international career.

Fabrizio Romano posted on X on Monday that Messi had released a statement announcing his decision, with the Argentine superstar revealing that he had given the matter considerable thought before deciding to retire from the national team.

Lionel Messi revealed the emotional decision to retire from Argentina's national team after six World Cups and 98 international goals scored.

Lionel Messi has retired from Argentina's national team at 39, leaving a legacy of 10 international records, including most goals and assists in history.

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football with Argentina after earning 207 caps. Messi, who debuted for Argentina in 2005, won

Lionel Messi said on Monday he is retiring from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July.

He made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals for Argentina.

He made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals for Argentina.