Argentina Legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football in a statement he released on Monday.
The eight-time World Footballer of the Year draws the curtain to his illustrious international career that saw him led his country to the World Cup final on three occasions, winning it once in Qatar 2022.
In his emotional statement Messi said he had given his national team team all he could and think now is the right time to retire even though it was a had decision to reach.
Messi added that time was no longer on his side and that it is now time for younger players to take up more responsibilities for the Argentina national football team.
“After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team.”
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment,” Messi said.
The Barcelona legend thanked fans of the Argentina national football team for their support in his 20 years of playing for his country.
“Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones.”
“Thank you to my family for always being there and for being with me throughout this beautiful but difficult journey. Thank you to every coach, teammate and director I had the chance to share it with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.
The 39-year old said he leaves the national team with peace and pride, knowing that he and his teammates gave his country moments they will cherish forever.
“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you.”
“I love you! Thank you God for making me Argentine.”
Rated as the greatest footballer of all times, Lionel Messi finished his legendary international career for Argentina national football team with 125 goals and 68 assists in 207 total appearances.
His senior national team trophy cabinet includes one FIFA World Cup (2022), two Copa América titles (2021, 2024), and one CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions (Finalissima 2022). (NAN)
