A Storied International Career Ends
Lionel Messi announced on Monday that he is retiring from international soccer, bringing an end to a career that spanned two decades with Argentina. The 39-year-old made the announcement on social media, saying the decision hurt deeply but that he understood it was the right moment. His final appearance for the national team came in the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina fell to Spain in extra time.[S1][S2]
Messi's international journey began in 2005 when he debuted for the senior team at age 18, and he went on to earn 207 caps, scoring 125 goals. He holds Argentina records for most appearances, goals, assists, World Cup appearances, and World Cup goals. His career included a 2022 World Cup victory, two Copa América titles, and a Finalissima win, among other honors.[S2]
Triumphs and Records
Messi's international career was marked by early success and later senior triumphs. He won the 2005 U-20 World Cup and an Olympic gold medal in 2008 before enduring years of near-misses with the senior team. In 2021, he led Argentina to a Copa América title, followed by the 2022 World Cup and another Copa América in 2024.[S3]
Throughout his career, Messi accumulated numerous individual accolades, including FIFA World Cup Golden Ball awards in 2014 and 2022, a Silver Ball in 2026, and a Silver Boot in 2022. He also broke Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup scoring record during the 2026 tournament, though Kylian Mbappé later surpassed him.[S1][S2]
Club Career Continues
While his international career has ended, Messi continues to perform at a high level with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. He joined the club in 2023 and has been prolific, scoring 20 goals in his first full season and 29 in 2025, leading the team to an MLS Cup victory. This season, he leads MLS with 18 goals, and Inter Miami sits second in the Eastern Conference.[S1]
Messi has not yet announced his plans for club soccer beyond the 2026 season. He remains with Inter Miami and recently scored four goals against CF Montreal, demonstrating his continued form. His retirement from international duty leaves fans wondering what might have been had Argentina won the World Cup final.[S2][S3]
