Lionel Messi retires from international soccer after 21 years with Argentina
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 10:16 AM
Last updated Sep 2, 2026
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international soccer, ending a 21-year tenure with Argentina. The 39-year-old forward recorded 125 goals in 207 appearances and led the team to three major titles, including the 2022 World Cup. His final competitive match resulted in a 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final this July. Following the loss, veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi also retired from international duty. Coach Lionel Scaloni is currently evaluating his future, as his contract with the Argentine football association expires in December. The national team now faces a transition period while integrating younger players like Nico Paz, Giuliano Simeone, and Franco Mastantuono.
- •Lionel Messi retired from international soccer after scoring 125 goals in 207 appearances.
- •Nicolas Otamendi announced his international retirement following the July loss to Spain.
- •Coach Lionel Scaloni holds a contract that expires in December.
- •Argentina will gain automatic qualification for the 2030 World Cup as a host nation.
- •Young talents like Nico Paz and Franco Mastantuono are expected to see increased playing time.
- 10:16 AMYahoo Sports — Messi departure leaves Argentina facing rebuild after golden era
"Argentina face a testing transition period as they attempt to move on from Lionel Messi's international retirement, with question marks also hanging over the futures of coach Lionel Scaloni and several ageing players.The biggest question marks surround the future of coach Scaloni, who has overseen the most successful spell for the Albiceleste since the days of Diego Maradona.
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