Lionel Messi retires from Argentina national team at age 39

Lionel Messi has retired from international football at the age of 39. He announced his decision on Monday in an Instagram post, which included a handwritten note in Spanish. He also added a footnote about his father, which helped him make his final decision.

Messi first played for Argentina in 2005, when he received a red card after just 43 seconds. His early years were difficult, and many people questioned his commitment to the national team. In 2016, he announced his retirement after losing three major finals, but he later changed his mind.

He returned and led Argentina to three major titles. He will continue playing club football in Major League Soccer. His international career lasted nearly twenty years.