Lionel Messi Announces Retirement; fans struggle to accept: ‘Poetic end to his GOAT career’ | Today’s news
Argentina maestro Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football on Monday, leaving fans heartbroken. The 39-year-old, who played in six World Cups and led Argentina to the final in 2026, said in an Instagram post: “It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep down, but I understand that this is the right moment.” He also admitted that the death of his father greatly influenced his decision.
The football star, adored by millions of fans around the world, has left fans devastated and in disbelief. One fan expressed shock at the development, writing: “This is not true. He can’t give up like this 😔
Another supporter reflected on the prospect of following Lionel Messi’s career from its beginning to its final chapter, saying: “I can’t even feel sad about it. It was all worth it watching him from the first start to the last.”
“Truly the end of an era. We’ll never see a player like him again,” added another.
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“Best ever, going off on a poetic end to your GOAT career. We’ll miss you leo,” wrote one fan.
Messi’s emotional farewell message
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep down, but I understand that it’s the right moment.
“I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last years when we won everything, but also before that. I always fought and gave everything for this shirt to bring you happiness and to make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.”
“There is not much time left and different chapters are coming to an end. This is the one that hurts a lot. I love, loved and will always love to be part of the national team. I gave everything I had and I have nothing more to give.”
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“There are also great young players coming in who deserve to be here.
“Thank you for all your love over these 20 years. I will miss hearing from you on the inside. Now I will be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in good times and even more in bad.”
“I thank my family for always being there and being with me throughout this beautiful but difficult journey. I thank every coach, teammate and director with whom I had the opportunity to share it. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.”
“I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates, we gave you the moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all this with you. I love you!
“Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.
“I wrote these words on July 21, two days after the final. Today, after what happened to my dad, I am even more convinced of this decision than before.”
