Argentina legend says decision “hurt to my core” but insists the time is right as he closes a remarkable 20-year chapter with the national team

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an extraordinary 20-year chapter with Argentina to an emotional end.

The 39-year-old Argentina captain made the announcement on Monday, weeks after the national team suffered defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.

Messi said the decision was painful but one he believes is necessary at this stage of his career. He also revealed that the recent death of his father, Jorge Messi, had strengthened his conviction that it was time to step away from international football.

In an emotional statement, the football icon said he had given everything he could to the national team and felt there was little more he could contribute.

“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,” Messi said.

“It was a decision that hurt, and still hurts, to my core, but I understand that it's the right time.”

Messi reflected on the enormous commitment he made to Argentina throughout his career, stressing that his dedication did not begin only during the period in which the team enjoyed major success.

“I swear that I always gave my all, not just in the last few years when we won everything, but before that too,” he said.

“I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you proud to be Argentinian through football.”

‘Chapters are closing’

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner acknowledged that his career with Argentina was entering its final stage and said he was ready to make way for the next generation.

“There’s not much time left, and chapters are closing, and this is one that hurts me deeply,” Messi said.

“I love, loved, and will always love being on the National Team. I've given everything I have; I have nothing more to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there.”

Messi's international career has been marked by both painful disappointments and historic triumphs.

After years of frustration and criticism over Argentina's failures to win major international honours, he eventually helped lead the country to a period of remarkable success, collecting major trophies and cementing his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

His relationship with the Argentina national team was particularly emotional because of the enormous expectations placed on him from the beginning of his international career.

Thanks supporters after two decades

As he confirmed his retirement, Messi thanked Argentine supporters for standing by him throughout the highs and lows of his career.

“Thank you for all the love and support over these 20 years,” he said.

“I’m going to miss hearing you all from the inside so much. Now I’m going to be just one of you, cheering and supporting you from the sidelines, in good times and bad, even more so.”

The veteran forward also paid tribute to his family, coaches, teammates and officials who accompanied him throughout his journey.

“Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful but difficult journey,” he said.

“Thank you to each and every one of the coaches, teammates, and managers I had the privilege of working with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.”

Messi said he leaves international football with a sense of fulfilment and pride over what he and his teammates achieved for Argentina.

“I leave with the peace and pride of having given you, along with my teammates, dreamlike moments,” he said.

“It was incredible to have experienced it with you all. I love you!”

He ended his statement with a final tribute to the country he has represented for two decades.

“Thank you, God, for making me Argentinian. Go Argentina!”