Lionel Messi announces his retirement from the Argentina national team after the historic final of the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi has ended a crucial stage in his sports career by announcing his retirement from the Argentine National Team. After more than two decades wearing the albiceleste jersey, the Argentine forward made the decision after participating in the final of the 2026 World Cup. His farewell will take place in a friendly match against Benin on October 6 at the Monumental Stadium.

A significant goodbye after the World Cup final

The news comes after a period of great importance for Messi. His presence was prominent in the team that reached the final of the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina lost to Spain. Subsequently, he confirmed that he will no longer represent his country as a player.

Why does Messi decide to retire?

In an emotional letter shared on his social media, Messi explained that he believes he has given everything he could to the National Team and that the time has come to close this chapter. Although painful, it was a thoughtful decision motivated by the desire to make way for the new generations.

At 39 years old, born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Lionel Messi has been a key figure in the recent history of Argentine football. Despite his retirement from the national team, he continues to demonstrate his influence in every match with Inter Miami in the MLS, keeping his legendary football career alive.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Lionel Messi anuncia su retirada de la Selección Argentina tras histórica final del Mundial 2026