Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, according to cmjornal.pt. The report, published Monday, quotes the player describing the move as a decision that "hurts the soul."
The announcement was covered by multiple outlets, including ge, which reported Messi saying the choice was difficult to accept. The news comes as a significant moment for Argentine football, with Messi having been a central figure for the squad for years.
The decision marks the end of an era for Argentina, a team that has relied heavily on Messi's leadership and skill. UOL commentator PVC praised Messi as the greatest player of the 21st century, reflecting the high regard in which he is held. O POVO noted that Argentina was fortunate to have Messi for a proper farewell, allowing fans and teammates to acknowledge his contributions.
Teammate Rodrigo De Paul paid tribute to Messi, saying he is "eternal," as reported by Terra. These reactions underscore the deep impact Messi has had on those who played alongside him and on the nation as a whole.
The exact reasons behind the timing of the retirement were not detailed in the available reports. The focus remains on the emotional weight of the announcement and the legacy Messi leaves behind with the national team.
What remains to be seen is whether Messi will reconsider or if this marks a definitive end to his international career. For now, the football world is left to reflect on his remarkable run with Argentina.
