Lionel Messi joins Argentina training ahead of international farewell

Lionel Messi has joined Argentina training ahead of his final appearance for the national team, following his decision to retire from international football.

The Inter Miami captain arrived at the squad’s camp for the first time since the start of the international break and took part in a session with his team-mates before Argentina’s friendly against Benin in the early hours of Wednesday.

Messi has also revealed the shirt he will wear for his final match with Argentina. The jersey, produced in collaboration with German sportswear company Adidas, was unveiled by the forward ahead of his farewell appearance.

“The last match… a shirt for life,” Messi wrote on his personal Instagram account.

The Argentine Football Association plans to honour Messi in front of the country’s supporters after his long career with the national team.

“We invited Messi to attend a farewell ceremony worthy of him on 7 October here in Argentina,” Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia said in comments to the press.

“We are also inviting all the members of the national team who won the World Cup in Qatar, along with their families, to join him in a match that will be unforgettable for all national team supporters.”

Messi decided to retire from international football after Argentina’s defeat in the 2026 World Cup final, but announced the decision several days ago following the death of his father several weeks earlier.

His international career began in 2005 and lasted for more than 20 years. Messi has made 207 appearances for Argentina, scoring 125 goals.

He led Argentina to victory at the 2022 World Cup and finished as a runner-up at the tournament in 2014 and 2026.

Messi also won the Copa America with Argentina in 2021 and 2024.