Messi Bids Farewell to Argentina National Team: 'Now I Am One of You'

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and world champion Lionel Messi has announced the end of his career with the Argentina national team. The 39-year-old footballer shared this news on social media.

Messi departs from the national team as Argentina's all-time leading scorer and the player with the most appearances. He has played 207 matches and scored 125 goals for the national team.

"This decision was painful and still hurts deep inside me, but I understand that the time has come. I swear I have always given my all—not just in recent years when we won everything, but also before that. I have always fought and given everything on the pitch for this jersey, to bring you joy and to make you feel the pride of being Argentine through football," Messi wrote.

The player noted that his years with the national team have been among the most significant phases of his life, but now it is time to make way for a new generation.

"I have loved, I love, and I will always love being part of the national team. I have given everything I could, and I no longer have anything else to give. At the same time, wonderful young guys are rising up who deserve this place," he remarked.

Messi expressed gratitude to the fans for their support over the last 20 years, emphasizing that he will now be one of them.

"I will miss your voices that I've heard on the pitch. Now I will be one of you, cheering and supporting the team in both good and bad times, especially in tough moments," he wrote.

He also thanked his family, coaches, teammates, and everyone who has accompanied him throughout his long career with the national team.

"I leave with peace of mind and pride that I was able to give you the moments you dreamed of with my teammates. It was incredible to live all of this with you. I love you all. Thank God for making me Argentine," Messi concluded.

With the Argentina national team, Messi became world champion in 2022 and led the team to the finals of the 2026 World Cup. He also won the Copa America twice, in 2021 and 2024. Messi made his debut for the national team in 2005. After years of defeats in major tournament finals, his relationship with the team turned into a streak of victories, culminating in the world champion title.