Lionel Messi Announces Retirement from International Soccer
2 sources across 2 countries · Taiwan · United Kingdom
Who reported this
- Taipei Times
- The Guardian
What the colours mean
- Left
- Centre-left
- Centre
- Centre-right
- Right
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Every outlet covering this story shares the same political lean; read with that in mind.
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international soccer on Monday via a post on Instagram. The 39 year old forward led Argentina to a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final in July, where the team lost 1-0 to Spain at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. In his statement, Messi described the decision as one that hurt and still hurts deep in his soul, but stated that he understands it is the right time for a new generation of players to take over.
Messi's international career spanned 21 years, beginning with his first call up in 2005. He became Argentina's leading scorer with 125 goals over 207 appearances and won two Copa Americas in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 World Cup victory against France. During the most recent tournament, Messi scored eight goals and provided two assists, including a performance in the semi finals against England. Despite his international retirement, his contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami remains active until the end of the 2028 season.
Personal loss played a role in his decision. Following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, last month, the athlete had expressed serious doubts about continuing to play soccer for much longer. His retirement announcement was met with tributes from teammates, Argentine President Javier Milei, and the public in Buenos Aires. Some observers noted that Messi's decision to share a handwritten note was a significant personal touch in the digital age.
Both reports, which come from center left outlets, frame the event as the end of a monumental era for Argentine sports. One source emphasizes the statistical achievements and the historical void left by his departure, while the other focuses on the emotional impact and the collective sense of mourning and gratitude felt by the Argentine people.
How each side framed it
- Centre-left
- The outlets framed the retirement as a poignant end to a legendary era, emphasizing both Messi's professional achievements and the deep emotional connection he shared with the public.
Sources
100% of the statements in this article were traced back to the source articles listed above.