Messi to Retire from Argentina National Team on September 4, Fabrizio Romano Confirms

Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, will retire from international duty with Argentina following their World Cup qualifier against Venezuela on September 4, 2025, in Buenos Aires. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the football world, marking the end of an illustrious chapter for the 38-year-old Inter Miami star and Argentina’s captain. While the exact reason for his decision remains partly speculative, sources close to the player suggest a combination of physical considerations and a desire to focus on his club career and family.

Messi’s international career, spanning two decades since his debut in 2005, includes a record 112 goals in 192 appearances, a 2008 Olympic gold medal, the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América. Despite these triumphs, which ended Argentina’s 28-year trophy drought, Messi has faced recurring injuries, including a minor adductor muscle issue that sidelined him for qualifiers in March 2025. According to posts on X, such as one from @AlbicelesteTalk on August 19, 2025, the Venezuela match is expected to be Messi’s final official game for Argentina in Buenos Aires, hinting at a planned farewell. Romano’s report aligns with this sentiment, confirming that Messi feels the time is right to step away from the national team.

The primary reason cited for Messi’s retirement is his ongoing struggle with injuries, which have limited his participation in recent qualifiers. A source close to the player told Sports Illustrated that Messi, now 38, wants to preserve his physical condition for Inter Miami’s MLS campaigns and avoid risking further setbacks ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where he may shift to a non-playing role, possibly as an ambassador or advisor. Additionally, Messi has expressed a desire to spend more time with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their three sons, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro, prioritizing family after years of intense international commitments.

Fans have taken to social media to express mixed emotions, with some lamenting the end of an era and others celebrating Messi’s legacy. One X user wrote, “Messi retiring after leading Argentina to glory is bittersweet, but he deserves to go out on his terms.” The September 4 match is expected to be an emotional farewell, with Argentina’s AFA planning a tribute to honor their greatest-ever player.

As Messi prepares to bid farewell to La Albiceleste, his impact on Argentine football remains unparalleled. The Venezuela game will likely see a packed stadium in Buenos Aires, celebrating a career that transformed the national team’s fortunes and cemented Messi’s status as a global icon.