Lionel Messi Bids Emotional Farewell to Argentina

Lionel Messi has drawn the curtain on his international career with Argentina, completing a remarkable journey containing 208 caps and 125 goals.

Following his country’s World Cup final defeat by Spain, the national captain made the difficult choice to step aside. Reflecting on his departure, Messi revealed, “It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come.”

After making his senior debut in 2005 and suffering early heartbreak in four major tournament finals, Messi initially retired in 2016. However, he returned to spearhead an extraordinary era under manager Lionel Scaloni, securing the 2021 and 2024 Copa America trophies alongside the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Messi leaves as his nation’s leading goalscorer and most-capped international player.

Beyond the national set-up, Messi continues playing for Inter Miami, where his contract runs to the end of the 2028 season. Off the pitch, he is expanding an impressive business portfolio estimated at $1.1bn by Forbes. His footballing legacy remains firmly established as he prepares for life away from international duty, stating, “I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give.”

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