'All the joy he gave us': Argentines thank Messi as he announces international retirement

Lionel Messi, 39, announced his retirement from Argentina's national team on Instagram on Monday, August 31, 2026, calling it 'a decision that hurts the soul.' He cited his father's death in August as the deciding factor. Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and another final in 2026, leaving fans and former teammates mourning the end of a generational era.

'No one should be burdened with the weight of being his replacement.'