Messi confirms "painful" decision on playing future

Argentina legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football describing the decision as "painful".

Weeks after leading his side to finish as runners up in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain, the 39-year-old took to social media to confirm the news.

“After the time that passed since the (World Cup) final, thinking about it a lot, I want to communicate to everyone that I am retiring from the national team,” Messi wrote on Instagram.

“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time.

“I swear to you that I always gave everything, not just in the last few years – when we won everything – but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt, to give you all joys and make you feel proud to be Argentines through soccer."

Four years ago, Messi led his team to World Cup glory against France in the Qatar final, but they fell just one win short of becoming on the third country to win back-to-back trophies this year.

last month Messi endured the agony of losing his father Jorge and following his death, the superstar had conceded having "serious doubts" about playing football for much longer.

"I don't know what I'll do without you, I don't know how to go on. I just played football, and now I have serious doubts about continuing to do so for much longer," he said then.

Messi is currently contracted with Inter Miami until the end of 2028.