Lionel Messi has retired from international football after an illustrious career with Argentina that saw him win the FIFA World Cup and two Copa América titles.
The 39-year-old forward ends his Argentina career as the country’s record goalscorer and one of its most decorated players.
Messi made his international debut in 2005 and went on to earn more than 200 caps for Argentina, scoring more than 120 goals.
His biggest achievement came at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he captained Argentina to victory and won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s outstanding player.
He also helped Argentina win the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, while he was part of the side that won Olympic gold at Beijing 2008.
Messi leaves international football having established himself as a central figure in one of Argentina’s most successful periods.
His departure marks the end of an era for the Argentina national team and world football.
