Football icon confirms international retirement, admitting decision still hurts but insisting the moment has arrived.
Image: Xinhua
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to an extraordinary chapter with Argentina.
The legendary forward said the decision was painful and continues to weigh heavily on him, but he believes stepping away is now the right choice.
Messi leaves behind a remarkable international legacy, having guided Argentina to major honours and cemented his status as one of the greatest players in football history.
His departure marks the end of an era for Argentina, with the team losing the captain who led them through some of the most memorable moments in the country’s football history.
