Lionel Messi, the iconic forward and captain of the Argentina national football team, has officially announced his retirement from international play, marking the end of an illustrious chapter in his career. The news, confirmed on Monday, comes after Messi made 207 appearances and scored an impressive 125 goals for his country.
At 39 years old, Messi has decided to focus on his club career with Inter Miami, where he continues to showcase his extraordinary talent. His international career was highlighted by leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a triumph that fulfilled his lifelong dream and solidified his status as one of the greatest players in football history.
Messi’s retirement places him as the second all-time leading male goalscorer in international football, trailing only his longtime rival, Cristiano Ronaldo. His remarkable journey began in 2005 when he made his debut for Argentina at just 18 years old, spanning over two decades and including a record-breaking eight Ballon d'Or awards.
Following the announcement, several of Messi's former teammates expressed their admiration and gratitude. Angel Di Maria, who was part of the World Cup-winning squad, shared his emotional response, stating, “It’s so hard to read that you’re retiring; we won’t be seeing you wearing the sky blue and white colours anymore. All I know is that I was born in the right century to witness you play, relish your performances, and share all those years with you in the national team.” Di Maria praised Messi as a legend and the greatest of all time.
Rodrigo De Paul, another teammate, echoed these sentiments, highlighting Messi's unwavering commitment to the national team and his ability to inspire those around him. “Your unconditional love for our country, your inner struggles to never give up, your strength in always enduring injustice, your leadership and kindness towards every player who stepped onto the training ground,” De Paul said. “Thank you for making us so, so happy; you have no idea how many smiles you brought to our faces. You are eternal.”
Enzo Fernandez also reflected on the impact Messi had on his career, stating, “How lucky I was, Leo... thank you for treating me the way you did, for everything you taught me and for letting me be part of your story. We’re going to miss you so much, captain.”
Messi's legacy is often compared to that of Diego Maradona, another Argentine football legend who led the national team to World Cup glory in 1986. Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentina Football Association, remarked on Messi's extraordinary journey, referring to him as “the captain of our dreams” and a player who made the impossible seem possible.
As Messi steps away from international competition, the love and admiration from his teammates and fans alike serve as a testament to his incredible contributions to the sport. His impact on the Argentina national team and football as a whole will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come.
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