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Lionel Messi retires from international soccer after 22 years

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 1:47 AM

Last updated Sep 1, 2026

Lionel Messi retires from international soccer after 22 years

Summary

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team at age 39. The forward leaves international competition following a 22-year career that included winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and reaching the 2026 final. Over his international tenure, Messi recorded 125 goals in 217 appearances, establishing an Argentine record. He remains under contract with Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer for two more seasons. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he contributed eight goals, finishing behind Kylian Mbappe in the tournament standings. Messi cited the toll of the decision but stated he gave everything to the team throughout his tenure.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Lionel Messi retired from international soccer at age 39.
•He scored 125 goals in 217 appearances for Argentina.
•Messi recorded eight goals during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
•He has two years remaining on his contract with Inter Miami CF.
•His international career included a 2022 World Cup title and a 2026 final appearance.

Latest Updates

1:47 AMYahoo Sports — Watching A Messi-anic Player Perform His Magic Through The Years

What they're saying

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On the day of the Argentine great's retirement from international soccer, veteran sportswriter Michael Lewis reminisces watching the great Lionel Messi through the years.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Inter Miami FIFA World Cup Soccer