United Kingdom, Aug. 31 -- Lionel Messi has retired from international football after 20 years.

The 39-year-old football legend, who has played for Argentina at six World Cup tournaments, has officially called time on his career with the National Team after "a lot of thought".

In an Instagram post translated from Spanish on Monday (31.08.26), he wrote: "After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the National Team...

"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deep down - but I understand that the time has come.

"I swear to you that I always gave it my all-not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I alwa...