Manila: Lionel Messi has declared that "after all this time and much thought since the 2026 World Cup final, I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring from the national team." "I bid farewell with unforgettable memories. I leave with peace and pride for having given you and my teammates dreamlike moments. It was incredible to experience this with all of you. I love you! 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 father, I am even more certain," Messi said. According to Philippines News Agency, the 39-year-old star footballer concluded his national team career with 125 goals in 207 matches. Messi's father, Jorge Messi, passed away on August 8 at the age of 68.