Argentina legend Lionel Messi announces international retirement - espn.in

**Lionel Messi Announces End to International Career**

*Buenos Aires –* In a televised press conference on Tuesday, Argentina’s all‑time football icon Lionel Messi confirmed that he will retire from international duty with the Albiceleste. The 36‑year‑old, who captained the side to the 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph and the 2021 Copa America title, said the decision was “personal” and came after a reflective period following Argentina’s latest competitive fixture. Messi’s statement was echoed by the Argentine Football Association (AFA), which released an official note thanking him for “more than two decades of unrivalled dedication and excellence on the world stage.”

Messi’s international résumé is unparalleled. He earned his first cap in 2005 and went on to amass 176 appearances, netting 115 goals—a record that still stands as the highest tally in South American football history. His trophy cabinet includes a World Cup, a Copa America, an Olympic gold medal (2008), and multiple CONMEBOL‑organized titles, as well as a record‑breaking haul of individual awards such as six Ballon d’Ors while wearing the blue and white jersey. The forward’s influence extended beyond statistics; teammates repeatedly highlighted his leadership, with Ángel Di María publicly calling Messi “the eternal captain” in a heartfelt farewell on Goal.com.

Reactions across the globe have been swift and reverent. Fans flooded social media with tributes, while former rivals and fellow legends praised his humility and impact on the sport. The retirement opens a new chapter for the Argentine squad, which now faces the task of rebuilding around a younger core ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Messi, however, signaled that his club career will continue at Inter Miami, suggesting that the Argentine maestro still has plenty to offer the game, albeit on a different stage.

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