Dbarta24 Sports Desk – Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football, drawing the curtain on a glorious career with the national team.
The 37-year-old superstar confirmed his decision on Monday through a heartfelt post on his official Facebook page.
Reflecting on his journey, Messi shared that he had spent considerable time thinking over the decision following the recent tournament final.
He expressed deep sadness over leaving the national team but noted that he feels it is the right moment to step aside for the next generation of players.
“After much thought, I want to inform everyone that I am retiring from the national team,” Messi stated in his message. “It is a decision that has caused and still causes immense pain in my heart, but I realize now is the time to step down. I can swear that I always gave everything for this shirt—not just in recent years when we won everything, but also in the times before.”
Messi emphasized that bringing joy to the people of Argentina and making fans feel proud of their identity through football was always his ultimate goal.
He acknowledged the talent rising behind him, stating that he no longer has anything left to give to the national side while promising young players are ready and deserving of their chance.
Expressing gratitude to his family, teammates, coaches, staff, and loyal supporters over the past two decades, Messi added that he will now cheer for Argentina as a fan.
He concluded his emotional message by revealing that he wrote the statement two days after the final on July 21, but the recent passing of his father further solidified his choice to step away.