BREAKING: Messi QUITS Argentina - End of an ERA

Lionel Messi has officially ended his career with the Argentina national team. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner closed the chapter on one of the most remarkable eras in "albiceleste" history with an emotional announcement.

The 39-year-old captain’s final match in the national jersey was the World Cup final loss to Spain. Four years before, at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Messi fulfilled his biggest dream by leading Argentina to the world title and lifting the trophy that had long eluded his extraordinary career.

After much reflection, Messi took to Instagram to share that the time had come to step away from the national team. The Argentine legend admitted this decision was incredibly painful.

After so much time since the final and after a lot of thinking, I want to tell everyone that I am retiring from the national team. This decision hurt me and still hurts, but I understand the time has come.

— Lionel Messi

He said he has always given his best for Argentina, through both the greatest triumphs and the toughest periods.

I have always given everything for this jersey. I fought until the end to bring you joy and to make you proud to be Argentine through football.

— Lionel Messi

Messi also feels he has given all he can and believes the next generation deserves its chance.

I love, loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’m spent and have nothing more to give. After us come great guys who deserve to be here.

— Lionel Messi

The legendary player thanked the fans for their support over the last two decades and promised he will now be one of them.

Thank you for all the love these 20 years. Now I will be one of you. I will always support the team from the outside – in good times and bad.

— Lionel Messi

He reserved a special place in his message for his family, coaches, teammates, and everyone who has been part of his long journey with the national team.

Messi leaves Argentina with a world title and a huge legacy after twenty years wearing the national colors.

I leave with the peace and pride that together with my teammates we gave you moments we dreamed of. Thank God for making me Argentine. Long live Argentina!

— Lionel Messi