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Sports
Lionel Messi Announces Retirement From International Football
✍️ Gulf News
🗓 01 Sep 2026, 04:39 PM
👁 2
The Argentine star confirmed his decision to retire from international duty, ending a 17‑year career that saw 170 caps and 91 goals.
Lionel Messi, the Argentine forward who has scored 91 goals in 170 international appearances, announced on Thursday that he will retire from international football after the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Messi’s decision comes after a 17‑year tenure that saw him win seven Ballon d’Or awards and lead Argentina to a Copa América title in 2021.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Buenos Aires, where Messi thanked teammates, coaches and fans for their support.
The football community worldwide has praised the legend’s contributions, with many clubs and players expressing their admiration for his legacy.
Messi’s decision comes after a 17‑year tenure that saw him win seven Ballon d’Or awards and lead Argentina to a Copa América title in 2021.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Buenos Aires, where Messi thanked teammates, coaches and fans for their support.
The football community worldwide has praised the legend’s contributions, with many clubs and players expressing their admiration for his legacy.