At 39, Lionel Messi announces his international retirement

Lionel Messi announced his international retirement on August 31, 2026, at the age of 39, after 207 caps and 125 goals for Argentina. In an Instagram message, he explained that he made this decision after losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain. Messi wants to make room for young talents and confirmed his importance in the team by scoring eight goals and providing four assists during his last World Cup.