Lionel Messi announces retirement from international football with heart-wrenching statement

Lionel Messi has confirmed that his time playing for Argentina is officially over.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner has given his country many a fantastic moment throughout his time representing the South American side in the international game.

Lionel Messi will never play for Argentina again

Earlier this month, Lionel Messi sadly lost his father, who passed away at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, following a long battle with illness, at the age of 68.

A heartbroken Messi confirmed that he was contemplating his future in football, claiming that he had: “Quite a few doubts about whether I’m going to keep doing it for much longer.”

Knowing his dad was ill throughout the summer, the legend understandably struggled in the World Cup final, explaining: “My legs couldn’t go on any more. This time I tried to push myself beyond my ​physical limits, but I couldn’t.”

Now, he’s uploaded a full statement to his Instagram page, confirming that he will no longer represent his beloved international side.

Messi explained: “It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all – not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.

“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 everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here.”

Featured Image Credit: Getty