The most glorious era in the history of international football has come to a close . Through an emotional statement, Lionel Messi confirmed his definitive retirement from the Argentine National Team on August 31st: “I’ve given my all, I have nothing more to give… I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you dreamlike moments. Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.” Twenty years defending the sky blue and white jersey culminated in eternal glory at Qatar 2022, two Copa América titles, a Copa Libertadores Final, and the moral leadership of an unparalleled generation.

The captain of a team with memory and dignity

Messi 's time with the national team isn't just measured in titles, dribbling skills, and impressive statistics. His captaincy solidified a group of people who deeply understood the cultural and political weight of wearing the Argentine jersey. Far from the corporate coldness that international powers try to impose on sports, the team captained by Leo built an unbreakable bridge with the popular sentiment.

Under his leadership and guidance within the locker room, this squad never shied away from its historical memory. It was these same players who, inspired by their competitive spirit, defied Anglo-FIFA censorship and the political leadership's indifference to raise the banner of "The Malvinas are Argentine" after defeating England in the 2016 World Cup semi-final. That sovereign cry, which resonated and moved the entire planet, bore the imprint of a group forged in the image and likeness of its captain: rebellious in the face of adversity, humble in victory, and loyal to its people.

A legacy that transcends the ball

Messi retires from the national team leaving a mark that time cannot erase. He taught us how to rise after the toughest defeats and showed that the sky blue and white jersey is defended with soul, both on the field and in the symbols that define us as a nation.

The number 10 may relinquish the armband, but his image remains forever etched in the collective memory of the millions of Argentinians who found healing joy in his exploits. Thank you for the football, for your commitment, and for carrying Argentinian pride and the claim to our islands to the top of the world.

After all this time that has passed since the final, and after much thought, I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring from the National Team…

It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deeply, but I understand that it's the right time. I swear I always gave my all, not just in the last few years when we won everything, but before that too. I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you proud to be Argentinian through football.

There's not much time left, and chapters are closing, and this is one that hurts a lot. I love, loved, and will always love being on the national team. I've given it my all; I have nothing more to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there.

Thank you for all the love these past 20 years. I'm going to miss hearing you all from the inside so much. Now I'm going to be one of you, cheering and supporting you from the outside (through thick and thin, even more so).

Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful but difficult journey. Thank you to each of the coaches, teammates, and managers I had the pleasure of sharing this experience with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.

I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, along with my teammates, some dreamlike moments. It was incredible to experience it all with you. I love you all!

Thank God for making me Argentinian.

Go Argentina!

*I wrote these words on July 21st, two days after the final. Today, after what happened to my dad, I'm even more convinced than before.