Buenos aires: Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football with Argentina on Monday, stating that he had given everything to the national team and believed it was time for a new generation.

According to Anadolu Agency, Messi shared his decision in a statement on Instagram, describing the choice as painful but one he had contemplated extensively since Argentina's final. "I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too," Messi expressed. "I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football."

Messi acknowledged that the national team is undergoing a period of transition, with younger players emerging who "deserve to be here." He reflected on the end of different chapters, noting, "There isn't much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I gave everything I had, and I don't have anything more to give."

The 39-year-old extended gratitude to Argentina's supporters, his family, coaches, teammates, and directors for their support throughout his international career. "I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of," Messi shared. "It was crazy to experience all of this with you."

Messi revealed he had composed the statement on July 21, two days after the final, but the death of his father further solidified his decision. "Today, after what happened with my dad, I'm even more convinced of this decision than before," he noted.

Messi concluded by thanking God for making him Argentine and expressed his enduring support with a heartfelt "Vamos Argentina!"