By Urdu Report Editorial Tea
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, saying the decision is “extremely painful” but that “the time has come.”
The 39-year-old has represented Argentina in 207 matches and scored 125 goals, making him the country’s most-capped player and leading international goalscorer.
Messi said he had given everything to Argentina and believed younger players now deserved their opportunities.
“I love being part of the national team, I did in the past and I always will,” he said.
Messi’s Argentina achievements
Messi’s international career included Argentina’s historic 2022 FIFA World Cup victory, two Copa América titles and the Finalissima.
He began his international career in 2005 against Hungary and went on to become one of football’s most decorated players.
Messi is the second-highest scorer in World Cup history with 21 goals. He also has 125 international goals, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo’s 146.
Club career to continue
Messi’s international retirement will not end his playing career. He will continue with MLS club Inter Miami, where his contract runs through the 2028 season.
Messi previously retired from international football in 2016 but later returned to Argentina’s national team.
His latest decision follows the death of his father, Jorge Messi, and Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
