Lionel Messi has officially retired from international football after more than two decades with Argentina, bringing the curtain down on one of the most remarkable careers in international football history.
The Argentina captain announced his retirement after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying he had given his country everything he had and had “nothing more to give.”
Messi’s international career began with Argentina’s youth teams before he progressed to the senior side and eventually became one of the country’s greatest-ever players.
During his 207 appearances for Argentina, Messi scored 125 goals and registered 60 assists, giving him a direct involvement in 185 goals.
His greatest achievements came in the final stage of his career. He led Argentina to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Messi also became the first player to feature at six World Cups, while setting several tournament records. He made 34 World Cup appearances, won 23 matches and provided 12 assists.
His 21 World Cup goals also placed him among the competition’s greatest scorers, although Kylian Mbappé eventually moved ahead of him during the 2026 tournament.
Messi’s career was not without difficult moments. His first international appearance ended in a red card against Hungary in 2005, while he also missed key penalties during his World Cup career.
Following Argentina’s defeat in the 2016 Copa América final, Messi briefly announced his retirement before later returning to the national team.
His final international chapter did not end with another major trophy, but his legacy remains firmly established through Argentina’s long-awaited World Cup triumph and his individual records.
After more than 20 years, Messi leaves international football as a three-time major tournament winner and one of the most influential players in Argentina’s history.
