For millions of football fans, the end of Lionel Messi’s Argentina career marks the closing of one of the greatest chapters in international football.

Messi, 39, has announced his retirement from international football after making 207 appearances for Argentina since his senior debut in 2005. He leaves the national team as a World Cup winner, a two-time Copa América champion and one of the most decorated players in the country’s history.

His decision comes shortly after a difficult period in his personal life and following Argentina’s run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Argentina lost the final to Spain, ending Messi’s final World Cup campaign without another title.

Messi had already acknowledged before his retirement announcement that he was uncertain about how much longer he could continue playing. The death of his father, Jorge Messi, earlier this month also contributed to his doubts about continuing his career.

In his retirement statement, Messi said the decision was painful but that he understood the time had come to close the chapter. He said he had always given everything for Argentina and wanted to make supporters proud.

He also pointed to the next generation of Argentine footballers, saying exceptional young players are emerging who deserve an opportunity with the national team.

The decision brings an end to a remarkable international journey that included difficult years before Argentina finally began winning major trophies with Messi as its leader.

His greatest international achievement came at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Argentina defeated France in a dramatic final and Messi finally lifted the trophy that had eluded him for much of his career.

He later added another major honour with Argentina at the Copa América, further cementing his place in the country's football history.

However, Messi's announcement does not mean he has retired from professional football completely. He remains a player for Inter Miami, with his contract extending through 2028.

For Argentina, the challenge now is moving into a new era without the player who has been at the centre of its national team for more than 20 years.

Messi's international career is over, but his legacy with Argentina will remain defined not only by the trophies he won, but also by the long journey it took to achieve them.

After 207 appearances, World Cup glory and years of unforgettable moments, Lionel Messi has finally said goodbye to Argentina.