Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39, bringing an extraordinary chapter of his Argentina career to an end. Messi leaves the national team as Argentina’s record appearance-maker and leading scorer, having represented the country across six FIFA World Cups and played a central role in one of the most successful periods in its recent history. His international journey included major setbacks before reaching its defining successes. After losing several major finals, Messi eventually helped Argentina end a long wait for a major senior trophy by winning the 2021 Copa América, followed by the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also captained Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, where they finished runners-up. His retirement therefore marks the end of nearly two decades of international football and closes one of the most significant chapters in Argentina’s football history. Although he has stepped away from international duty, Messi continues to play club football with Inter Miami. His first appearance after announcing the retirement came in September, when he provided an assist in Miami’s 2-2 draw against Atlanta United.