Did Messi Retire From International Football? (2025 Update)

By Sarah Miller · April 9, 2050

No, Lionel Messi has not retired from international football. As of October 2025, he remains an active member of the Argentina national team and continues to play a pivotal role in major tournaments.

Clarifying Messi's International Status

There has been widespread speculation over the years about Lionel Messi potentially retiring from international competition. However, as of 2025, Messi is still actively representing Argentina on the global stage. His leadership and performance were instrumental in Argentina’s victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and he has continued to participate in CONMEBOL qualifiers and regional competitions since then.

Messi's International Career Timeline

Lionel Messi made his senior debut for Argentina in 2005 and has since become the nation’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player. Over nearly two decades, Messi has transformed from a young prodigy into the spiritual leader of Argentine football.

Key Milestones in Messi's International Journey

Debut: August 17, 2005 vs Hungary (friendly)
First major final: 2007 Copa América (runner-up)
First international trophy: 2021 Copa América
World Cup triumph: 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
2024 Copa América victory: Second consecutive continental title
Active participation in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers (as of 2025)

Recent Appearances and Contributions

In 2024, Messi led Argentina to victory in the Copa América, scoring crucial goals and earning the Golden Ball as tournament MVP. Despite managing his club schedule with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi has committed to key international fixtures, including World Cup qualifiers for the 2026 tournament hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Messi's current role includes both on-field performance and mentorship for younger players such as Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández, ensuring a smooth transition for the next generation of Argentine talent.

Performance Statistics: Messi for Argentina (As of September 2025)

Statistic	Value
Appearances	186
Goals	104
Assists	58
Major Trophies Won	4
Trophies List	Copa América 2021 & 2024, FIFA World Cup 2022, Finalissima 2022
Average Goals per Game	0.56
Captaincy Duration	Since 2018
World Cup Appearances	26 (all-time record)

Table data source:FIFA, Football Data API

The data confirms Messi’s extraordinary consistency and impact at the international level. With over 100 goals and 180+ caps, he holds multiple records, including most goals and appearances for Argentina. His sustained excellence into his late 30s highlights exceptional fitness and tactical intelligence.

Why the Retirement Rumors Persist

Several factors have fueled speculation about Messi stepping away from international duty:

Age and workload management: Born in 1987, Messi is now 38 and balances club commitments with national team duties.
Post-World Cup legacy peak: After winning the 2022 World Cup, many expected him to retire internationally, similar to other legends.
Reduced minutes: He often comes off the bench in qualifiers, suggesting a phased transition.
Media narrative: Outlets frequently revisit the topic during international breaks.

Nonetheless, Messi himself has stated in interviews that he will decide his future based on physical condition and desire, not age alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Messi and International Football

Did Messi retire after winning the 2022 World Cup?

No, Lionel Messi did not retire after the 2022 World Cup. He continued playing for Argentina and helped the team win the 2024 Copa América, proving he remains active in international football.

How many trophies has Messi won with Argentina?

As of 2025, Messi has won four major trophies with Argentina: the 2021 and 2024 Copa América, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the 2022 Finalissima against Italy.

Is Messi still captain of Argentina?

Yes, Messi has served as Argentina’s captain since 2018 and continues to wear the armband during official matches, although he occasionally rotates leadership in friendlies.

Will Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?

Messi has expressed interest in participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While nothing is confirmed, his ongoing involvement in qualifiers suggests he aims to compete, possibly marking a farewell tournament.

What is Messi’s goal record for Argentina?

Messi has scored 104 goals in 186 appearances for Argentina, making him the nation’s all-time top scorer and one of the highest scorers in men’s international football history.