Supporters across the globe have taken to social media to react to Lionel Messi’s decision to retire from international football, marking the end of a historic chapter with Argentina.
The 39-year-old captain leaves as Argentina’s top goalscorer and most-capped player, having scored 125 goals in 207 appearances.
Messi’s international career began in 2005 with a red card less than a minute into his debut. It endured heartbreak in four major finals, including the 2014 World Cup, before culminating in a golden era for La Albiceleste.
Between 2021 and 2024, Messi captained Argentina to two Copa América titles, the 2022 Finalissima and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Fans expressed their gratitude after the World Cup winner said stepping away was a difficult decision, but one he had made to give younger players an opportunity.
“Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply,” Messi stated. “I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’ve given it my all, I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some really great young players coming through behind me who deserve their chance.”
Tributes have also poured in over the personal toll behind the timing of his decision.
The announcement followed the death of his father, Jorge, which Messi said reinforced a choice he had been considering since Argentina’s World Cup final loss to Spain in July.
“Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced than before,” he wrote on Instagram.
While supporters mourn the end of Messi’s international journey, many have welcomed the fact that his playing career is not over.
Messi will continue playing at club level for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, where his contract runs through 2028.
Football fans have also been reflecting on a career that has brought Messi 44 senior trophies, more than 900 official career goals and a record eight Ballon d’Or awards.
Following two decades with the national team, Messi thanked supporters for their unwavering backing.
“Thank you for all the love over the past 20 years,” he added. “I’m going to miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, always cheering and supporting from the sidelines.
“I’m leaving with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, together with my team-mates, moments we’d only dreamed of. It was incredible to have experienced this with you all. I love you!”