en.malanginspirasi.com — Lionel Messi, the greatest player of his generation and Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped international, has announced his retirement from the national team.
The 39-year-old shared a handwritten note on social media Monday, two days after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
In the message, Messi described the decision as deeply painful, compounded by the recent passing of his father, Jorge Messi.
He expressed a sense of peace and immense pride in the records and memories he leaves behind.
“This is not an easy decision,” the note read in part. “The pain is real, made heavier by the loss of my father. But I feel peace knowing I gave everything. I step aside with pride for the younger players who will carry the albiceleste forward. I will always cheer for Argentina from afar.”
Messi thanked fans around the world, his family, coaches, teammates past and present, and the Argentine Football Association. He confirmed he will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
The announcement closes a legendary international chapter that included the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, multiple Copa América titles, and countless individual records.
Messi exits as Argentina’s top scorer and most-capped player, having inspired a golden era for the national side.
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Tributes flooded in immediately.
The Argentina national team posted a heartfelt message calling him “eternal captain” and “the pride of a nation.”
FIFA and CONMEBOL issued statements praising his unmatched contribution to the game and his leadership on and off the pitch.
Fans across the globe shared memories, photos, and messages of gratitude, many noting that while one era ends, Messi’s influence on Argentine football will endure.
Messi’s decision comes after a storied career that transformed both club and country.
While he will no longer wear the blue-and-white stripes, his presence as a supporter and living legend remains.
For now, the focus shifts to the next generation of Argentine talent, with the football world left to reflect on the extraordinary legacy of Lionel Messi.
