Lionel Messi Announces Retirement From Argentina National Team
2 sources across 2 countries · Indonesia · South Africa
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- Tempo English
- Daily Maverick
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- Left
- Centre-left
- Centre
- Centre-right
- Right
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Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team at the age of 39, ending an international career that spanned 21 years. The forward retires as Argentina's most capped player and leading goalscorer, finishing his tenure with 207 appearances and 125 goals. He also holds the record for the most World Cup appearances with 26 matches played across six tournaments between 2006 and 2026.
Messi's career included significant triumphs, most notably leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He also won two Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, and an Olympic gold medal in 2008. His final international campaign concluded with a loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, a tournament where he contributed to 12 of Argentina's 19 goals.
In his announcement, Messi stated that the decision was difficult but necessary, noting that great young players deserve their chance. He reflected on his journey from early years of disappointment, including three consecutive major final losses between 2014 and 2016, to an era of major success. Throughout his career, Messi faced intense comparisons to Diego Maradona and criticism from some Argentinians regarding his commitment to the national team, which led to a brief retirement in 2016. He eventually cemented his legacy with the 2022 World Cup win, where he recorded seven goals and three assists.
How each side framed it
- Centre-left
- Outlets of this lean framed the event as the conclusion of a historic and decorated legacy, focusing on his statistical records and the emotional transition of his retirement.
Sources
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