Messi's retirement ends a saga sparked by 2019 loss to Brasil

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on Monday, leaving as a historic idol after a trophy‑laden five‑year spell that included the 2022 World Cup (Mundo) and Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024. He capped a career that began with heartbreaks, notably the 2‑0 semi‑final defeat to Brasil in the 2019 Copa América.

From near‑retirement to resurgence

Messi had contemplated quitting after three consecutive runner‑up finishes: the 2014 World Cup and the 2015 and 2016 Copa América finals. Those defeats left him and the nation yearning for a breakthrough.

For years a large part of the Argentine crowd viewed the Barcelona star as too detached when wearing the national shirt. Critics labelled him “too cold” and questioned his Argentine identity.

2019 defeat sparked a new Messi

Em ação contra Messi, the semi‑final loss to Brasil at the Mineirão ended 2‑0 and marked a turning point. Rather than retreat, Messi responded with renewed vigor, displaying a more vocal and Argentine‑styled leadership.

In the subsequent third‑place clash against Chile at the Neo Química Arena, Messi’s heated exchange with Gary Medel led to both players being sent off in the first half. Argentina were already 2‑0 ahead thanks to goals from Sergio Agüero and Paulo Dybala.

Five years later Messi lifted his first senior title as Argentina beat Brasil 1‑0 in the 2021 Copa América final at the Maracanã. The victory ended a 28‑year trophy drought for the nation.

The following year he added the Finalissima win over Italy and, in December, captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar, ending a 36‑year wait for the sport’s biggest prize. His quarter‑final duel with the Netherlands featured the memorable retort “Que está mirando, bobo”.

In the 2024 Copa América hosted by the United States, Messi was forced off with an injury and was seen weeping on the bench. Lautaro Martínez’s extra‑time strike secured the trophy for Argentina.

Two years later, back in the United States for the 2026 World Cup, Messi guided Argentina to a third final, only to be denied by Spain. He announced his departure with a sense of duty fulfilled and no lingering frustrations.