- Messi announced his retirement from international football on Monday via Instagram.
- Barcelona boss Hansi Flick expressed sadness over Messi's retirement, stating he is the best player in the world.
- Messi retires with 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina, having won the World Cup and two Copa America titles.
- Flick stated, “Time flies. That’s how it is, and of course, he’s the best player in the world, so it’s unbelievable.”
- Flick added, “I also greatly enjoyed his performance in the World Cup. He was fantastic. On one hand, I’m truly sad, but in the end, that’s life and he’s had a fantastic career.”
- Flick emphasized, “He is the best player in the world and he proved it during the World Cup.”
- Barcelona legend Xavi congratulated Messi, saying, “Congratulations Leo! You have achieved everything you set out to do with Argentina!! Simply, the best! Huge hug.”
- Messi retires as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and their most-capped player, admitting it’s a decision that hurts but he has “nothing left to give.”
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick expressed his sadness over Lionel Messi's retirement from international football, a decision announced after the Argentine legend made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals for his country. Flick remarked, “Time flies. That’s how it is, and of course, he’s the best player in the world, so it’s unbelievable,” reflecting on Messi's illustrious career.234910
Messi's retirement comes after a storied journey that included winning the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and two Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024. He retires as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, a legacy that has left an indelible mark on the sport.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Messi acknowledged the emotional weight of his decision, stating he has “nothing left to give.” Barcelona responded with pride, saying, “You gave it all until your last breath. Your country and all of Barcelona are proud of the legacy you leave.” Xavi, a Barcelona legend, also celebrated Messi's achievements, stating, “Congratulations Leo! You have achieved everything you set out to do with Argentina!! Simply, the best! Huge hug.”18
Messi's journey has been marked by highs and lows, including a brief retirement in 2016 after a heartbreaking loss in the Copa America final, a decision that drew sympathy from rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who said, “It hurts to see Messi in tears, and I hope he returns to his country, because he needs it.” Ultimately, Messi returned to lead Argentina to glory, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in football history.
“Messi retires as Argentina's all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, having won the World Cup and two Copa America titles. Barcelona responded on Instagram, praising his legacy, while Xavi congratulated him, saying he achieved everything he set out to do.”
Barca Blaugranes
