Argentina great Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, saying it was a decision that “hurt” but “the time has come”
The 39-year-old, who captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, has scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.
In a statement, Messi said he has given everything to the national side but now has “nothing left to give”.
He added: “Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply.
“I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team.
“I’ve given it my all, I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some really great young players coming through behind me who deserve their chance.”
ALL THE BEST