Lionel Messi has brought his two-decade international career with Argentina to an end, saying he has reached a point where he has “nothing left to give” to the national team.
The 39-year-old forward announced his decision on Monday in an emotional statement, revealing that he had spent considerable time reflecting on his future with the team since the final.
Messi said the decision was painful but necessary, adding that he leaves the national team with “peace and pride” after helping Argentina experience some of its greatest moments in football.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts in my soul, but I understand that this is the moment,” Messi said.
The former Barcelona star stressed that his commitment to Argentina had extended beyond the years in which the team enjoyed major success, insisting that he had always given his best for the national jersey.
“I always gave everything, not just the last few years when everything was won, and I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, for giving them joy and making them proud to be Argentinians through football,” he said.
Messi said he would continue to love the national team despite no longer being part of it, while expressing confidence in the younger generation of Argentine players.
“I loved, loved, and will always love being in the National Team. I emptied myself, I no longer have anything left to give, and besides, there are very great young players coming in the future who deserve to be there,” he added.
The Argentina captain thanked supporters for their affection throughout his 20 years with the national team, promising to continue supporting the side from outside the squad.
He also paid tribute to his family, coaches, teammates and team officials for their roles in his international journey, saying he would leave with memories and moments he would never forget.
Messi revealed in a note accompanying his announcement that the death of his father had strengthened his conviction that retirement was the right decision.
His departure marks the end of one of the most celebrated international careers in Argentine football history, having represented the country for two decades and helped deliver major honours during the latter stages of his career.
Messi concluded his message with a tribute to his country, saying: “Thank you God for making me Argentine. Go Argentina!”
