Lionel Messi has confirmed his retirement from international football, bringing a close to a 20-year career with the Argentina national team. The 39-year-old forward played his final match for his country during the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina faced a defeat against Spain. The announcement arrived following a deeply personal period for the player, marked by the passing of his father, Jorge, after a long illness.
The Final Instagram Statement and Personal Context
In a statement published on Instagram, Messi detailed the heavy emotional weight behind his departure from the national team. Messi noted that while he drafted initial thoughts shortly after the World Cup final, the subsequent death of his father reinforced his decision to step away from international duty permanently.
“After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the national team,” Messi wrote. “It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come.”
Messi concludes his international career as Argentina’s all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, having amassed 207 appearances and 125 goals. His tenure yielded major international silverware, highlighted by the World Cup victory and two Copa América titles.
Reactions from Hansi Flick and Barcelona
The announcement prompted reactions across European football, including a tribute from Barcelona boss Hansi Flick. Flick expressed sorrow upon learning that the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star was hanging up his international boots.
“Time flies. That’s how it is, and of course, he’s the best player in the world, so it’s unbelievable,” Flick told DAZN. “I also greatly enjoyed his performance in the World Cup. He was fantastic. On one hand, I’m truly sad, but in the end, that’s life and he’s had a fantastic career.”
Barcelona issued a response on social media acknowledging the forward’s legacy: “You gave it all until your last breath. Your country and all of Barcelona are proud of the legacy you leave.”
Tributes from Former Teammates
Former team-mate Xavi also paid tribute to the Argentine icon following the announcement. Xavi replied to the news by stating: “Congratulations Leo! You have achieved everything you set out to do with Argentina!! Simply, the best! Huge hug.”
Messi’s departure leaves a void in the squad, though the player himself expressed confidence in the incoming generation. In his farewell message, he noted that “there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here,” signaling trust in the squad’s future as he transitions to supporting the team from the outside.
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