Sani Ali K/Mata
Argentina’s great Lionel Messi retired from international football, describing his decision as hurting but stressing that it was the right time.
Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022 and has scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.
In a statement on Instagram, Messi said he has nothing left to offer Argentina haven given everything to the national side.
“Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply.
“I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team.
“I’ve given it my all, I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some really great young players coming through behind me who deserve their chance.”
Messi had earlier indicated in August that he was considering his future after the death of his father, Jorge, who died aged 68 following a long illness.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he wrote his retirement message on 21 July, two days after Argentina lost to Spain in this summer’s World Cup final.
“Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced than before.”
The Argentine great is highly regarded by many as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) after winning a record 8 Ballon D’Ors and 2 Copa America Cup, 1 World Cup, and 1 Olympic Gold, amongst many other laurels.
