Messi's final goodbye ends a decade of false retirements
Lionel Messi, 39, announced on Monday the 31st that he is retiring from the Argentina national team, sharing a letter on social media. The Argentine star said the decision follows the 2026 World Cup final defeat to Spain 1‑0 and is final, ending years of speculation.
A personal farewell
In the letter Messi wrote, “Foi uma decisão que doeu e dói na alma, mas entendo que este é o momento,” adding that his father’s death early in August pushed him to act. “Após a final da Copa do Mundo de 2026, em que a Argentina foi derrotada por 1‑0 à Espanha,” he explained, thanking fans for two decades of support and pledging to cheer the Albiceleste from the stands.
He recalled earlier attempts to quit. Ten years ago, after the loss to Chile in the Copa América Centenario final, the number 10 announced he would leave the Albiceleste. A further hint came after the 2018 World Cup in Russia, when he considered stepping away but stayed following discussions with coach Lionel Scaloni and former teammate Pablo Aimar.
A career of near‑misses and triumphs
Messi’s international record includes four final defeats – the Copa América finals of 2007, 2015 and 2016, and the 2014 World Cup final. In the 2016 centenary final he missed a penalty that could have altered the outcome, and he endured harsh criticism for perceived lack of commitment, even being accused of not singing the national anthem.
Nevertheless, he lifted the Copa América trophy in 2021, beating Brazil in the Maracanã and delivering the first major title for Argentina since the 2014 World Cup. That triumph capped a career that blended heartbreak with historic glory.
Looking ahead, Messi wrote that “há grandes garotos vindo, que merecem estar aqui,” urging the federation to give younger talents more space. He said he will remain a supporter from outside, cheering the team in both good and bad times.
The contrast between this definitive farewell and his previous, tentative exits underscores the end of an era. Argentina now faces the task of rebuilding without their iconic number 10, while the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire future generations.