Messi announces retirement from Argentina national team after World Cup final loss
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team via Instagram on August 31, citing the decision as the right time after the World Cup final loss to Spain. The 39-year-old captain leaves with 125 goals and 68 assists in 207 appearances, having won the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles, and an Olympic gold. CONMEBOL and teammate Ángel Di María paid tribute, marking the end of an era for Argentine football.
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Argentina Suspends All Football Matches for Tribute to Lionel Messi After Retirement
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced that all football matches across the country, from the top professional leagues down to the lowest divisions, will be interrupted for a tribute to Lionel Messi. Association President Claudio Tapia stated that games in all men's and women's competitions will be stopped after ten minutes of play to honor Messi's career with the Argentine national team with a minute of applause. In stadiums equipped with screens, the association's tribute video will be shown before kickoff. This nationwide tribute follows Messi's announcement of his retirement from the Albiceleste at age 39, ending a 21-year international career. Messi described the decision as one that 'hurt his soul.' He played 207 international matches and scored 125 goals for Argentina, winning the World Cup in 2022 and leading the team to the final in the 2026 World Cup, where they lost to Spain. The tribute is scheduled for the next matchday across all Argentine leagues.
Read sourceArgentina to pause all soccer games for one-minute applause in tribute to Lionel Messi retirement
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced that all football matches across all categories in Argentina, including men's, women's, futsal, and beach soccer, will pause in the 10th minute for a one-minute applause to honor Lionel Messi following his retirement from the national team. The 39-year-old Inter Miami star confirmed his decision earlier this week, stating it 'hurts deep in my soul' but that 'the time has come.' Messi's last appearance for Argentina was in July's World Cup final defeat by Spain. He is Argentina's all-time record appearance holder (207) and goalscorer (125), having won the 2022 World Cup and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024. The tribute began on Wednesday during a Copa Argentina match between Velez Sarsfield and Boca Juniors. Stadiums with screens are also required to broadcast an AFA institutional video before matches.
Argentine Football Association to Honor Messi with Minute-Long Applause in All Matches
On September 2, 2024, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) issued Official Announcement No. 6940, declaring that in the next round of all levels and categories of men's and women's matches in Argentina, a special tribute will be paid to Lionel Messi, who announced his retirement from the Argentine national team on August 31. The AFA decision mandates that all related matches, including 11-a-side football, futsal, and beach football, will pause at the 10th minute of the first half for a one-minute applause to honor Messi's achievements and legendary career with the national team. Additionally, all venues equipped with large screens must play an official AFA-produced video before the match begins. Messi, 39, ended a 21-year national team career, stating he made the decision after repeated consideration following the World Cup final and that he had 'given everything' for the national team while hoping to leave opportunities for younger players.
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Borussia Dortmund Pays Tribute to Messi After Argentina Retirement Announcement
On September 2, following Lionel Messi's announcement of his retirement from the Argentine national team, Borussia Dortmund's official Spanish Instagram account posted a tribute to the football legend. The post, shared by Hupu soccer news, stated: 'Our players witnessed it all, and so did we. Congratulations to Messi on his brilliant career with the Argentine national team.' The tribute was accompanied by black and yellow heart emojis, representing Dortmund's colors. The article notes that the comment section on Hupu was empty at the time of reporting. This event highlights the widespread respect for Messi's international career, which includes winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup, among other achievements. Dortmund's acknowledgment underscores the global impact of Messi's decision to retire from international football.
Read sourceArgentina National Team Pays Emotional Tribute to Lionel Messi, Thanking Him for Uniting the Country
On September 1st, the official social media of the Argentina national team released a tribute video for Lionel Messi, narrated from the perspective of the team's crest. The video expresses deep gratitude to Messi for his over 20-year career with the national team, highlighting how he added a third star to the crest by winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The narration recalls key moments, including the Maracanã final, a penalty scored, and the victory over England, and emphasizes how Messi inspired millions worldwide to wear the blue and white jersey. The crest tells Messi that children now aspire to be like him, thanking him for uniting the entire nation. The tribute concludes with a heartfelt farewell, stating that the legend he left behind will last forever. The article, sourced from Hupu Soccer, reports on this emotional farewell as Messi's international career appears to be winding down.
Mastantuono Pays Tribute to Messi After Argentina Retirement Announcement
On September 1st, following Lionel Messi's announcement of his retirement from the Argentina national team, Argentine international Franco Mastantuono paid tribute to the legendary footballer via Instagram Story. Mastantuono shared a photo of himself playing alongside Messi for the national team and wrote a heartfelt message, calling Messi 'forever the best we've ever had' and stating that playing with his idol was the biggest dream of his life. He added that from now on, every time the Argentina national team plays, all Argentines will miss Messi, and concluded with 'Thank you, number 10.' The news was reported by Hupu Football, a Chinese sports media outlet, and highlights the emotional impact of Messi's retirement on current and former teammates.
Read sourceGinobili Pays Tribute to Messi After Argentina Retirement Announcement
On September 2, former NBA star and Argentine basketball legend Manu Ginobili paid tribute to Lionel Messi via social media following Messi's announcement of his retirement from the Argentine national team. Ginobili shared a celebratory photo of teammates tossing Messi into the air on social media, with a caption expressing gratitude and honor for witnessing Messi's performances on the field. The tribute was reported by Hupu soccer, a Chinese sports news platform, and sourced from X (formerly Twitter). The article highlights the mutual respect between two iconic Argentine athletes, with readers commenting that they are 'two gems of Argentina' and that 'heroes respect heroes.'
Read sourceDybala Pays Tribute to Messi After Argentina Retirement: Thank You for Everything
Following Lionel Messi's announcement of his retirement from the Argentine national team, fellow Argentine forward Paulo Dybala posted a heartfelt tribute on his personal Instagram account. Dybala expressed his honor in sharing many years and moments with Messi, noting that Messi inspired him from childhood to become a player like him. Dybala, who plays a similar position, said he watched, learned, and tried to imitate Messi's moves, which seem easy for Messi but are almost impossible for others. He recalled the privilege of standing on the pitch alongside Messi, learning up close, and together achieving the greatest dream of winning the World Cup. Dybala thanked Messi for everything he gave to the national team and expressed pride in being part of the journey alongside the captain. The tribute was reported by Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports news outlet, on September 1st.
Argentine President Milei Calls Messi's National Team Exit a 'Great Pain'
Argentine President Javier Milei publicly commented on Lionel Messi's retirement from the national team, describing it as a 'great pain' and acknowledging the challenge of rebuilding without the team's 'ace.' In an interview on the program El Observador, Milei expressed personal grief, noting he has defended Messi globally during difficult periods. He highlighted Messi's 30-year career, including over 22 years at the highest level, leading Argentina to four recent finals and winning one World Cup. Milei also shared a personal habit of watching a video compilation of 800 Messi goals with a professor, calling the experience 'devastating.' He referenced a British study claiming Messi excels in all aspects of football, with over six metrics deviating from the average, compared to two or three for other elite players like Mbappé or Cristiano Ronaldo. Milei concluded that Messi's performance is 'not normal' and that Argentina has been witnessing a 'super genius.' The report originates from Argentine sports outlet Olé and was republished by Hupu Soccer.
Read sourceMessi Told Teammates World Cup Final Was His Last Match, Report Says
According to a report from Argentina's Olé newspaper, relayed by Hupu, Lionel Messi informed his Argentine national team teammates in the locker room immediately after the 2026 World Cup final that it was his last match for the country. The report details that on July 19, 2026, following a loss to Spain, the 39-year-old captain thanked his teammates for their effort and sacrifice, then calmly announced his retirement. Many players, including Leandro Paredes, initially hoped the decision was emotional and would be reversed. However, Messi's resolve did not waver; his farewell letter was reportedly written two days later. The recent passing of his father further solidified his decision to step away from football and focus on family. The article portrays Messi's final act as a leader, urging the team to maintain its unity and collective spirit, which he considered the most valuable legacy of his 21-year international career.
Read sourceA Non-Argentina Fan's Emotional Farewell to Lionel Messi After National Team Retirement
This article, written by a self-identified non-Argentina fan on the Hupu soccer community, reflects on Lionel Messi's sudden announcement of retirement from the Argentina national team. The author describes the emotional impact of Messi's farewell statement, which was written two days after the 2026 World Cup final but released 40 days later following his father's death. The piece traces Messi's 20-year national team career from a shy teenager to a bearded captain, highlighting his perseverance through 15 years of criticism for lacking international titles, his eventual World Cup victory in Qatar, and his continued play at age 39. The author emphasizes Messi's humility, tenderness, and dedication, noting that he never saw himself as the GOAT but simply as someone who loved football. The article concludes with gratitude for Messi's contributions and a message to future generations who witnessed his career.
Read sourceLionel Messi Retires from International Football After 21 Years with Argentina
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football on September 1, 2026, ending a 21-year career with Argentina that included 207 appearances and 125 goals. The decision came after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, which Messi described as his 'last tango.' He had written the retirement statement on July 21, two days after the final, but delayed the announcement following the death of his father, Jorge. Messi cited that he had 'nothing more to give' and leaves with pride after leading Argentina to Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024 and the World Cup in 2022. Despite moments of brilliance during the 2026 World Cup, including match-turning performances against Egypt and England, the 39-year-old could not overcome a superior Spanish team in the final. He continues to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Lionel Messi Retires from Argentina National Team After 21-Year Career
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football on September 1, 2026, ending a 21-year career with the Argentina national team that included 207 appearances and 125 goals. The 39-year-old made the decision after the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina lost to Spain, and following the death of his father, Jorge. Messi stated he had 'nothing more to give' to the national team. His international career included winning the Copa America in 2021 and 2024, and the World Cup in 2022, which fulfilled his and Argentina's dreams. The article reflects on his journey from early frustrations and defeats in three consecutive finals to becoming a national hero who delivered some of Argentina's greatest football memories. Messi continues to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Marca Reporter Praises Messi's Exemplary Conduct After National Team Retirement Announcement
Argentine star Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the national team on Monday. Marca journalist Juan Castro wrote a column paying tribute to Messi, reflecting on witnessing his six World Cup journeys from 2006 to the 2022 Qatar World Cup victory. Castro emphasized that he learned more from Messi in defeat than in victory, noting how Messi considered retiring after the 2016 Copa America final loss but chose to return. The reporter highlighted Messi's willingness to give interviews regardless of winning or losing, even staying late to chat with print journalists. Castro described Messi as full of humanity, having won everything but also lost significant matches like the 2014 World Cup and consecutive Copa America finals, yet never stopped trying. The column dismissed criticism of Messi not looking at Rodri during a recent award ceremony as a minor episode in a 20-year career, stating Messi's conduct has been exemplary. Castro concluded that Messi, in his view on par with Pele and Maradona, deserved the World Cup honor and expressed that he will be missed.
Zhan Jun Praises Messi's Courage and Resilience as He Bids Farewell to Argentina
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the national team via social media on August 31st. Renowned Chinese commentator Zhan Jun responded on Weibo, reflecting on Messi's 21-year career with Argentina. Zhan highlighted Messi's journey from a promising newcomer through repeated setbacks and near-despair, culminating in his triumphant 2022 World Cup victory. He praised Messi's courage and resilience, noting that these qualities define true talent. Zhan also acknowledged Messi's continued contributions in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, driven by responsibility and honor. He concluded by thanking Messi, calling him 'King Messi,' and framing this farewell as both an end and a new beginning. The article, published on Hupu Soccer, includes reader comments questioning if this retirement is final, given Messi's previous departures.
Read sourceLionel Messi retires from international soccer after World Cup title and 125 goals
Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine soccer star, has announced his retirement from international soccer. The announcement comes after Argentina's World Cup loss, as noted by Bloomberg, though AP News highlights his career achievements including a World Cup title and 125 international goals. Multiple major news outlets including AP News, ESPN, Yahoo Sports, CNN, and Bloomberg are covering the story. The retirement marks the end of an era for Argentine soccer, with Messi being widely regarded as one of the greatest players in history. His international career spanned over two decades, during which he led Argentina to multiple titles including the 2022 World Cup. The news has prompted commercial responses, with Adidas offering his Argentina jersey on sale for $91 according to Yahoo Sports. CNN's coverage focuses on Messi's immigrant background and his connection to Argentina.
Read sourceAlmada Pays Tribute to Messi After Argentine Star Announces National Team Retirement
On September 1st, Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentine national team, prompting a heartfelt tribute from fellow Argentine footballer Thiago Almada. Almada took to social media to honor Messi, stating that his contributions while wearing the blue and white jersey cannot be measured by trophies alone. He highlighted the unforgettable moments, emotions, and sense of identity Messi gave to the Argentine people. Almada expressed gratitude for witnessing Messi's fight and representation of the national team up close, calling him an unparalleled role model both on and off the pitch. The post, shared on Instagram and reported by Hupu soccer news, concluded with Almada calling Messi 'eternal' and thanking him for advice and shared moments. The article captures the emotional response from a teammate following Messi's decision to step away from international football.
Read sourceRomero pays tribute to Messi after Argentina retirement announcement
On August 31, Argentine defender Cristian Romero posted a heartfelt farewell to Lionel Messi on social media after Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team. In the post, Romero expressed disbelief that the day had come, recalling his childhood dream of meeting Messi and the gift of fighting alongside him during the most glorious golden era of the Argentina national team. Romero thanked Messi for leaving an indelible legacy, teaching never to give up, and leading with humility without placing himself above others. He said he would cherish memories of Messi as a person, emphasizing his humility and simplicity. Romero concluded by saying the national team will miss Messi greatly but wished him happiness and well-being with his family. The post was shared on Instagram and reported by Hupu soccer news.
Read sourceMourinho Sends Blessings to Messi After Argentina Retirement Announcement
On August 31, following Lionel Messi's announcement of his retirement from the Argentine national team, renowned football manager José Mourinho publicly sent his blessings via Instagram. Mourinho posted a message on his Instagram story, congratulating Messi on what he described as a 'brilliant and unforgettable' national team career. He also noted that the upcoming Copa America and World Cup tournaments will be different without Messi. The report, sourced from Hupu Soccer, highlights the mutual respect between two of football's most prominent figures. Mourinho's gesture underscores the significance of Messi's decision to step away from international football, marking the end of an era for Argentina and the sport globally. The news has generated significant attention among fans and analysts, reflecting on Messi's legacy with the national team, which includes winning the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Read sourceOtamendi Pays Emotional Tribute to Messi After Argentina Retirement Announcement
On September 1st, Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentine national team, prompting an emotional tribute from his longtime teammate and friend, Nicolas Otamendi. In a heartfelt social media post on Instagram, Otamendi expressed his love and gratitude for Messi, reflecting on their years together fighting battles and chasing dreams side by side. He thanked Messi for teaching them to believe in hopeless moments and for taking the Argentine jersey to the pinnacle of the world, making millions of Argentines feel their dreams could come true. Otamendi said it will be hard not seeing Messi in the blue and white jersey and that it will hurt deeply, but they will look back and relive everything he brought them. He concluded by saying it was an honor to walk this path with Messi and that he will spend his life grateful for being part of his legendary journey. The post was shared on Hupu, a Chinese sports community platform, which reported the news.
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