Entertainment
Lionel Messi retires from Argentina's national team after 21-year international career
The 39-year-old captain leaves as Argentina's all-time top scorer amid additional uncertainty over manager Lionel Scaloni's tenure.
The short version
- Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football following a 21-year career with Argentina that featured 125 goals and the 2022 World Cup title.
- The national team faces a major transition as it evaluates young playmakers like Nico Paz and Thiago Almada to take over Messi's role.
- Head coach Lionel Scaloni hinted he may leave when his contract expires in December following Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final.
- Argentina is planning upcoming friendlies through November ahead of its next major tournament test at the 2028 Copa America.
Key facts
- Lionel Messi announced his international retirement on social media, concluding a 21-year national team career with 125 goals across six World Cups.[Associated Press]
- Messi holds the tournament records for both most appearances (34) and most victories (23) in World Cup history.[Associated Press]
- Manager Lionel Scaloni's contract extends through December, though he previously suggested he might step down by the end of the year.[Associated Press]
- The Argentine Football Association has scheduled friendlies for late September, October, and November, though opponents remain unconfirmed.[Associated Press]
What remains uncertain
- Whether manager Lionel Scaloni will renew his contract or step down at the end of December remains unconfirmed.[Associated Press]
- The Argentine Football Association has not yet announced opponents for the upcoming autumn friendlies.[Associated Press]