Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, concluding his international career after participating in six World Cups and winning one in 2022. The legendary forward shared his decision via Instagram on Monday, August 31.
In his handwritten note, Messi expressed the difficulty of the decision. "It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come," he wrote. He conveyed that he gave his all for the national team over the years and that younger players deserve opportunities. Messi also mentioned that recent personal events, including the passing of his father, Jorge, on August 8, solidified his decision.
Despite leaving international competition, the 39-year-old forward has approximately 2.5 years remaining on his contract with Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami CF. He is set to play with the club through December 2028. Messi has 13 matches remaining with Inter Miami from September through November, before the MLS postseason begins.
Fans will have an opportunity to see Messi play in the New Jersey area when Inter Miami faces the New York Red Bulls at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, NJ, on Saturday, October 24. The team also has upcoming matches against Atlanta United FC, Chicago Fire FC, and D.C. United, among others.
Messi's announcement comes shortly after a strong performance on August 29, where he scored four goals and provided an assist in Inter Miami's 7-1 victory over CF Montréal.