Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to a close a remarkable chapter with Argentina after more than two decades representing the national team. The 39-year-old made the announcement on Monday in a message shared on social media, bringing his time with the country to a close.

Messi made his senior debut for Argentina in 2005 and went on to become the team’s record goalscorer, recording 207 appearances and 125 goals. His international career eventually produced major silverware, including the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa América.

His final tournament came at the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina reached the final before losing to Spain. Messi had previously led the South American side to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, completing one of the biggest achievements of his career after years of near misses with the national team.

Messi said stepping away was an emotional decision but indicated that he believes the time has come for a new generation to take responsibility for Argentina. Although he will no longer play for the national team, his international career leaves behind a record of major trophies, goals and appearances that places him among the country’s greatest footballers.