Lionel Messi retires from international football as Argentina mourns ‘end of an era’

Argentinians have paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the 39-year-old confirmed his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a career that delivered World Cup glory and an enduring connection with his country.

Messi announced the decision on Instagram on Monday, describing it as “a decision that hurts the soul”. He captained Argentina to victory at the 2022 World Cup and led them to another final in 2026.

The announcement had been widely anticipated, but many supporters said it was still painful to accept.

“It’s going to be difficult, but I’m super grateful for all the joy he gave us as a country,” said Francisca Mieth, an 18-year-old university student, in the Belgrano neighbourhood of Buenos Aires.

For Jose Aramburu, a 36-year-old dog walker, Messi’s greatest contribution went beyond his performances and trophies. He said the forward had shown the importance of continuing to pursue an ambition despite criticism.

“The most important thing that Messi gave us was the fact that he insisted, persisted and pursued a dream, a goal, an objective, without caring about what other people said,” Aramburu said.

Messi’s presence had been impossible to miss during this year’s World Cup. His image appeared on billboards throughout central Buenos Aires, while an 85-foot statue of the former Barcelona player towered above a town in Patagonia.

Residents there watched Argentina’s match against England on a screen installed beside the statue’s giant knees.

During the tournament, Argentinians also celebrated Messi’s scoring streak and took to the streets to sing “Happy Birthday” when he turned 39 in June.

Messi said the death of his father in August, following a long illness, had confirmed his decision to bring his international career to a close.

Argentinian newspaper La Nacion summed up the national mood with the headline: “The end of an era.”

A psychologist speaking to local television channel TN warned against placing unrealistic expectations on the player who eventually follows Messi in the national team.

“No one should be burdened with the weight of being his replacement,” the psychologist said.

Tributes also came from across social media, including former Argentina team-mates. Angel Di Maria, who retired from international football in 2024, thanked Messi for representing their country.

“We’re going to be grateful to you for our entire lives for being Argentinian,” he wrote.

Messi’s retirement closes the international chapter of a career that has made him one of Argentina’s most recognisable sporting figures. His image has become a fixture across the country, while his determination to continue playing for the national team helped shape the public’s relationship with him.

For supporters in Buenos Aires and beyond, the announcement marks the loss of the player who carried their hopes through the biggest tournaments and gave them memories they say will last for generations.