Messi retires from international football

Maestro Lionel Messi, one of the
greatest players in football history,
has enjoyed an illustrious career
with his beloved Argentina

01
FIFA World Cup
title (2022)

Achieved dream
of winning World Cup
for Argentina – his nations’
first triumph since 1986

02
Copa America
crowns (2021, 2024)

06
World Cup tournament appearances
– equal with rival Cristiano Ronaldo

11
Hat-tricks for La Albiceleste – final
feat against Algeria at 2026 World Cup

18
Age on international debut against
Hungary, dismissed after 47 seconds

21
Goals scored at World Cups –
surpassed by Kylian Mbappé (22)

34
World Cup matches – including
three finals (2014, 2022, 2026)

39
Age on retirement after previously
quitting after 2016 Copa América

60
Assists

111
Goals scored with
favourite left foot

125
Total goals scored
for Argentina

207
All appearances
(2005-26)

Sources: BBC, ESPN
Pictures: Getty Images
© GRAPHIC NEWS