On Monday, August 31, the Argentine football star Lionel Messi officially announced his retirement from the national team on Instagram, along with a statement he penned just two days after the final.
Messi mentioned that he had written the resignation statement on July 21, and the news of his father Jorge Messi’s passing further solidified his decision. Jorge passed away on the evening of August 7 at the age of 68.
As a global football superstar, Messi will no longer wear the Argentine national team jersey. This signifies that the 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final was his farewell match in his national team career.
With 207 appearances, 125 goals, 68 assists, a World Cup championship, and two Copa America titles, Messi bids farewell to his Argentine national team career as an unrivaled legendary star.
After 21 years since his national team debut, this legendary figure, donning the number 10 jersey, closes one of the most unforgettable chapters in football history.
Declaration:
It has been a long time since the final, after much reflection, I want to announce to everyone that I will retire from the national team…
This is a decision that breaks my heart, still causing me immense pain, but I understand that the time is now. I swear I have always given my all, not just in the years we won all the trophies, but even before. I have always fought for this jersey, to bring you joy, to make you proud as Argentineans through football.
Time is running out, the chapter is coming to a close, and this is extremely painful for me. I love the national team, I did in the past, and will always do so in the future. I have given my all, there’s no turning back. Moreover, there are many talented young players coming up behind me who deserve this spot as well.
Thank you for the love and support you have given me over these 20 years. I will miss hearing your voices on the field. Now, I will be one among you, cheering you on from the sidelines—no matter the circumstances, I will be even more resolute.
I thank my family for always being by my side, walking with me through this beautiful yet challenging journey. Thanks to every coach, teammate, and manager, I have been fortunate to share all of this with them. These unforgettable memories and moments will forever be etched in my heart.
I leave with inner peace and pride because alongside my teammates, we have brought you such magical moments. Being able to share all of this with you has been amazing. I love you all!
Thanks to God for making me an Argentinean.
Let’s go, Argentina!
Note: These words were written by me on July 21, just two days after (the World Cup) final. After my father’s unfortunate event, today I believe in this even more.