Buenos Aires, Argentina – Soccer legend Lionel Messi confirmed on Thursday that he will retire from international competition, ending a 20‑year career with the Argentine national team. In an emotional press conference held at the Argentine Football Association headquarters, Messi said, “It has been an honor to wear the blue and white jersey. I am proud of what we have achieved together, especially the 2022 World Cup triumph, and I feel it is the right time to step aside and allow the next generation to lead.” Messi, who has amassed 115 caps and 104 goals for Argentina, also announced his intention to focus on his club career at Inter Miami and on charitable work through the Leo Messi Foundation. The Argentine Football Association thanked the forward for his unparalleled contributions, describing him as “the greatest player in our history”. The decision sparks speculation about who will inherit the captain’s armband, with midfielders Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernández among the favorites to lead the squad into the 2027 Copa América.
On top of everything as it happens