Leo Messi leaves the Argentine national team. “It hurts in the soul, but I understand that it is the moment,” said the 39-year-old footballer in a statement he issued on social media with a letter he wrote two days after losing the World Cup final against Spain. “I swear I always gave everything, not only in the last years when everything was won; before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this jersey, to give you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football. There is little left and stages are closing, and this is one that hurts me a lot. I love, loved, and will always love being in the National Team. I emptied myself, I have nothing more to give, and besides, there are very great youngsters coming up who deserve to be here,” the Argentine star continued.
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The Argentine, who played with the Albiceleste for 20 years, has thanked the support and affection of every Argentine. “I will miss hearing you from inside very much. Now I will be one more of you, always cheering and supporting from the outside (in good times and bad, much more).” The World Cup final lost against Spain on July 19 was a major reason that made the Argentine reflect on his stage in the Argentine national team. But the death of his father, Jorge Messi, just three weeks ago, has been an event that convinced him even more to take this step, according to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. “Thanks to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful but difficult journey. Thanks to each of the coaches, teammates, and officials I had the chance to share with. I take unforgettable memories and moments lived.”
After a first break from the Argentine national team by the former Barcelona footballer in June 2016 following a loss in the Copa América final against Chile, now, at 39 years old, Messi will stop wearing the Albiceleste on the pitch. On that occasion, he decided to return following the pleas and push of an entire country for him to come back. And his return brought great joy to his nation: two Copa Américas and one World Cup. “I leave with the peace and pride of having given you, together with my teammates, dreamed moments. It was crazy to have lived it with you. I love you! Thank you God for making me Argentine. Let’s go Argentina!” concluded Leo.