In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, the Argentine captain Messi said the decision was painful but that he believed it was the right time to step away after years of representing his country.
“After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team,” Messi wrote.
The football icon said he had always given everything for the national team, not only during the period in which Argentina enjoyed major success, but throughout his entire international career.
“It was a decision that hurt, and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that this is the right moment,” he said, adding that he had always fought to make Argentines proud and bring happiness through football.
Messi acknowledged that his international career was approaching its final chapter and said he was proud of everything he had achieved with his teammates.
“I leave with peace of mind and pride, knowing that together with my teammates, we gave you moments you could only dream of,” he stated.
He also expressed his appreciation to Argentine supporters, saying he would miss hearing their voices from inside the stadium but would continue supporting the national team as a fan.
“Now I’ll be just another one of you, always supporting from the outside, through the good times and especially through the bad,” Messi wrote.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner thanked his family, coaches, teammates and officials who had accompanied him throughout his 20-year international journey, saying he would carry unforgettable memories with him.
Messi also pointed to the emergence of a new generation of Argentine players who deserve opportunities to represent the country.
“There are also some incredible young players coming through who deserve their chance,” he said.
Concluding his emotional message, Messi thanked God for making him Argentine and declared his continued love for the national team.
“Thank God for making me Argentine. Come on, Argentina!”
In a postscript, Messi explained that he had originally written the message on July 21, two days after the final, but said that events involving his father had since strengthened his decision to retire.
“Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced than I was before,” he added.
By: Prince Martey-Sogar