Off the PitchMirror FootballUnverified source· 31 Aug 2026
Messi retires from international football
Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain proved to be Messi's last game for his country.
L. Messi
player
Who
Lionel Messi
What
Announced retirement from international football
When
After World Cup final defeat
Where
Via Instagram statement
What happened. Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football, confirming that Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final was his final game for his country.
- Messi said the decision hurt but it's the right time.
- He thanked fans and said he always gave his all.
- He stated chapters are closing and this one hurts deeply.
“After all this time that has passed since the final, and after much thought, I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring from the National Team…”
— Lionel Messi
Messi's retirement marks the end of an era for Argentina, with his international career concluding after the World Cup final.
Read the full story at Mirror Football →
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