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Lionel Messi retires from Argentina’s national team after 21 years

  • On Monday, Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina's National Team, stating the decision "hurt" but he understands "the time has come."
  • His decision follows the recent loss of his father, Jorge Messi, who served as his agent and career cornerstone, and Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final.
  • Messi concludes his career as Argentina's most-capped player with 207 appearances, having captured the World Cup and two Copa titles in 2021 and 2024.
  • Thanking Argentine fans, Messi wrote, "I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much," and expressed gratitude, saying "Thank you, God, for making me Argentine."
  • Questioning his future in professional football, Messi wrote, "I don't know what I'm going to do without you," expressing uncertainty about continuing his playing career.
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Messi Retires From Argentina After Six World Cups

Messi announced his Argentina retirement Monday after 21 years, 98 goals, six World Cups, the 2022 title, and a runner-up finish at the 2026 tournament.

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NBC LA broke the news in Los Angeles, United States on Monday, August 31, 2026.
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