Messi retires from Argentina: ‘Thank you, God, for making me Argentinian’

Throughout his extraordinary career, Lionel Messi has often spoken about his soccer talent as a gift from God.

“It’s very clear to me that I was born like this because God chose me,” Messi has said.

Now, at 39, Messi is closing the chapter on his international career. In an Instagram post Monday, he shared a handwritten message confirming his retirement from Argentina’s national team after more than 20 years representing his country.

He ended his emotional farewell with the words: “Thank you, God, for making me Argentinian.”

Messi played in six World Cups, winning the tournament with Argentina in 2022 and reaching the final again in 2026, where Argentina lost to Spain. During this year’s tournament, he reflected on everything he had received throughout his career, saying, “God has truly spoiled me.”

While his time with Argentina has come to an end, Messi is not retiring from soccer. He will continue playing for Inter Miami, where he is under contract through the 2028 MLS season.