Lionel Messi retires from international football

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team. The 39-year-old forward played for his country for 21 years.

"It was a decision that hurt, and still hurts deeply, but I understand that the time has come," Messi wrote on Instagram.

Messi played at a record six World Cups. In 2022 in Qatar he led Argentina to the title, and in 2014 and 2026 to the final, the last of which Argentina lost to Spain in extra time.

Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami in MLS.