Lionel Messi confirms Argentina retirement after ‘giving everything’

Lionel Messi has confirmed he will no longer play for Argentina, saying he leaves the national team with no regrets after fulfilling his ambition of representing his country.

The former FC Barcelona and PSG forward made his final appearance for the Albiceleste on Tuesday, when Argentina faced the Guepards of Benin. The match marked the end of Messi’s international career as the team’s number 10.

In a message published on social media, Messi said: “The time has come. I leave in peace, I gave everything.”

Messi departs after winning more than 200 caps for Argentina and scoring 126 goals. He said the national team had represented a lifelong ambition and remained central to his identity.

“This shirt was my dream, my pride and my life for years,” he added.

The 10 number will now be worn by another Argentina player, with Messi describing his departure as the conclusion of a mission he had long pursued with the national side.