Lionel Messi’s international retirement leaves Argentina facing ‘end of an era’

Lionel Messi has confirmed his retirement from international football, prompting an outpouring of gratitude from Argentinians who say the 39-year-old leaves behind an unmatched legacy with the national team.

Messi made the announcement on Instagram on Monday, describing his decision as “a decision that hurts the soul”. He captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and led them to another final in 2026.

The news had been anticipated for some time, but still brought sadness across the country.

“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 Buenos Aires’ leafy Belgrano neighbourhood.

For dog walker Jose Aramburu, Messi’s greatest contribution was not limited to his goals or trophies. The 36-year-old 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,” he said.

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

Residents of the Patagonian town watched Argentina’s match against England on a screen placed beside the statue’s giant knees.

The forward also continued to set records with his scoring streak during the tournament. When he turned 39 in June, supporters filled the streets to sing “Happy Birthday” to him.

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

The reaction was reflected in the country’s media, with Argentinian newspaper La Nacion describing the announcement as “The end of an era” in a headline on its website.

A psychologist speaking to local television channel TN warned against placing unrealistic expectations on the next generation of Argentina players.

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

Tributes also came from Messi’s former international team-mates on social media. Angel Di Maria, who retired from international football in 2024, thanked Messi for representing Argentina.

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

Messi’s decision closes an international career defined by sustained success, record-breaking performances and a determination to continue despite the pressure surrounding Argentina’s most celebrated footballer.

Reuters