Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football, concluding a remarkable 20-year career with the Argentina national team. At 39 years old, Messi took to social media to share his heartfelt decision, expressing that it “hurt, and still hurts deep in my soul” but affirming that the time was right to step away. He noted, “I gave everything I had; I have nothing more to give,” and emphasized the emergence of talented young players ready to take their chance on the international stage.

Messi’s tenure with Argentina is highlighted by an impressive collection of achievements, including winning the 2022 World Cup, two Copa America titles, the Finalissima, Olympic gold, and the Under-20 World Cup. Over his international career, he played 207 matches, scoring 125 goals and providing 68 assists, amassing an incredible 193 goal contributions.

Although he penned his retirement message on July 21, shortly after Argentina’s loss to Spain in the final, Messi stood out as a top performer during the tournament. Following his departure from European football, he continues to showcase his skills with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, recently scoring four goals and making an assist in a match against Montreal.

Messi’s legacy is firmly rooted in his many accomplishments and his ability to carry the weight of Argentina’s aspirations through years of trials in major finals, culminating in the joyous victory at the 2022 World Cup. As he steps away from the international scene, Messi reflects, “Thank God for making me Argentine. Come on, Argentina!” marking the end of an era for arguably Argentina’s greatest footballer.