Lionel Messi has described his retirement from international football as the “saddest day” of his career after making his final appearance for Argentina in a 3-0 victory over Benin.
Messi delivered a memorable farewell at the Monumental Stadium, scoring once and providing two assists as Argentina secured the win. After the match, he addressed more than 80,000 supporters and reflected on his long journey with the national team.
The football star said representing Argentina for more than two decades had been one of the greatest honours of his career.
He acknowledged the difficult periods he experienced with the national team but said he remained committed despite the setbacks.
Messi admitted that ending his international career was painful, saying he would have preferred to continue playing for Argentina for the rest of his life.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni paid tribute to Messi, describing him as a player unlike any other he had encountered.
Scaloni, who played alongside Messi before becoming the national team coach, said working with the football star had exceeded his expectations and expressed gratitude for everything Messi contributed to the team.
The coach also highlighted Messi’s legacy, particularly his role in Argentina’s success on the international stage, including the country’s 2022 World Cup triumph.
For Messi, returning to the Monumental for his farewell carried special significance. The stadium was also the venue for Argentina’s first match after winning the 2022 World Cup.
The 39-year-old said his decision to retire from international football was difficult but necessary after considering the physical and emotional demands of Argentina’s recent World Cup campaign.
He recalled the pressure surrounding the tournament and Argentina’s run to the final, saying the experience had taken a significant toll on the players.
Messi also suffered a personal loss during the period following the tournament with the death of his father and agent, Jorge Messi, in August.
Despite the emotional circumstances surrounding his departure, Messi said he believed the timing was right.
He thanked his teammates, coaches and supporters who shared his journey with Argentina and pledged to continue supporting the national team from the stands.
Scaloni said Messi leaves behind an extraordinary legacy and urged the current squad to build a strong team capable of moving forward without its long-time captain and talisman.
