The legendary Lionel Messi graced six editions of the FIFA World Cup™ and routinely lit up the greatest stage of all. The genius no10 – who announced his international retirement on 31 August 2026 – captained Argentina to the title at Qatar 2022 and netted 21 goals at the tournament.

Lionel Messi has played his last game representing Argentina, the soccer star announced Monday. The 39-year-old Messi’s retirement from the national team comes 20 years after his first appearance and ends a career with La Albiceleste that saw him score 98 goals and add 38 assists in 142 matches.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: here's a weekly wrap on their life, football and records.

Among the abundant contenders for Messi’s greatest, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has one clear favourite: his header against Manchester United in the 2009 Champions League final.

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina’s team yesterday – get his jersey for 30% off before it sells out.