Lionel Messi Retirement: The Full Story Fans Can’t Forget 💔⚽
Lionel Messi Retirement – the boy from Rosario who became the king of football. For millions, the thought of Lionel Messi retirement feels like the end of an era. From his heartbreaking 2016 international retirement to lifting the World Cup in 2022, Messi’s career is a rollercoaster of tears, joy, and unforgettable memories.
Let’s take a closer look at when Messi retired, when he came back, his current club, his age, stats, and whether he will play in the 2026 World Cup.
Messi vs Ronaldo: Who Will Retire First?
The rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t just about goals and trophies – it now extends to the question: Who will retire first?
Both players are nearing the final stages of their legendary careers, but their circumstances and playing styles may determine who hangs up his boots earlier.
| Factor | Lionel Messi | Cristiano Ronaldo |
|---|---|---|
| Age (2025) | 38 (born June 24, 1987) | 40 (born Feb 5, 1985) |
| Current Club | Inter Miami (MLS) | Al-Nassr (Saudi Pro League) |
| Playing Style | Playmaker, vision-based (ages better) | Physical, goal-poacher (needs peak fitness) |
| International Plans | May retire after 2026 World Cup | Aiming to play Euro 2028 (age 43) |
| Retirement Outlook | Likely before Ronaldo (2026–27) | May play longer (2027–28) |
👉 Verdict: Even though Ronaldo is older, his obsession with fitness may allow him to play longer. Messi is more likely to retire first, possibly after the 2026 World Cup.
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How Many Times Has Lionel Messi Retirement from International Football?
Messi has retired only once from international football. After Argentina’s defeat in the 2016 Copa América final against Chile, he shocked the world by announcing:
“I tried so hard, but I think the national team is not for me anymore.”
It was a moment that broke millions of hearts. Fans flooded social media with tears, while Messi’s Instagram was filled with emotional tributes.
When Did Messi Come Back from Retirement? 🙌
Just two months later, in August 2016, Messi returned. His Instagram post read like a promise:
“I love Argentina too much to stay away. We will fight again.”
This comeback marked the beginning of a new chapter that eventually led to Copa América 2021 and the World Cup 2022 triumph.
Lionel Messi Retirement Timeline 📅
Here’s a quick look at Messi’s retirement and comeback journey:
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Retirement | After losing Copa América final vs Chile |
| 2016 (Aug) | Comeback | Returned to help Argentina in World Cup qualifiers |
| 2021 | Historic Win | Won Copa América against Brazil |
| 2022 | World Champion | Lifted the FIFA World Cup in Qatar |
| 2026? | Possible Farewell | Fans expect his final tournament |
Is Messi Going to Play in the 2026 World Cup?
Messi will be 39 years old in 2026. He has admitted it will be “very difficult,” but he hasn’t completely ruled it out. Fans dream of one last dance.
Messi’s Instagram after the 2022 World Cup final:
“I always dreamed of this moment. Thank you for believing in us.”
If Messi plays in 2026, it could be the perfect farewell.
What If Lionel Messi Retirement at 25? 🤔
Imagine Messi ending his career at 25. He already had:
- 3 Champions League trophies
- 5 Ballon d’Or awards
- Over 200 goals
Even then, he would’ve been a legend. But by continuing, he gave us the greatest story in football – ending with Argentina’s World Cup victory in 2022.
Lionel Messi Current Team’s & Club Journey
- When Did Messi Join Barcelona?
Messi joined Barcelona in 2000 (La Masia Academy) and made his debut in 2004. - Messi New Club Name
After leaving Barcelona in 2021, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
In 2023, he signed with Inter Miami CF in the MLS. - Lionel Messi Current Team’s
Today, Messi plays for Inter Miami CF and the Argentina national team.
Lionel Messi Age & Stats
- Age: Born on June 24, 1987, Messi is 38 years old in 2025.
- Lionel Messi Stats:
- 1,000+ matches played
- 800+ career goals
- 40+ trophies (including World Cup 2022)
Why Did Messi Retire in 2016?
Messi retired because of the emotional toll of losing four finals with Argentina. The pain of missing penalties and seeing his nation suffer pushed him to say:
“I can’t do this anymore.”
But destiny had bigger plans. His comeback gave us the fairytale ending in Qatar.
The Inevitable Goodbye 😢
Lionel Messi’s retirement will not just be a football story – it will be the end of a dream for billions. From his 2016 heartbreak, to his Instagram posts celebrating World Cup glory, Messi’s journey has been pure magic.
Whenever he decides to hang up his boots – 2026, 2027, or later – fans know one thing: There will never be another Lionel Messi.
“I was born in Argentina, I lived for football, and I gave everything for my people.” – Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi Retirement FAQs
Has Lionel Messi retired from international football?
No. Messi is still active with Argentina. On September 4, 2025, he scored twice in a 3-0 win over Venezuela in World Cup qualifying.
When did Messi first retire from international football, and why?
He retired on June 26, 2016 after Argentina’s Copa América final loss to Chile, frustrated by repeated defeats.
When did Messi return from his 2016 retirement?
Messi came back in August 2016, just two months later, after pressure from fans and officials.
Is Messi going to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
He hasn’t confirmed yet. Messi said he’s “excited and eager,” but his fitness at 39–40 will decide.
When might Messi officially retire from international football?
Most expect 2026 to be his final World Cup if he plays, making it a graceful exit.
What is Lionel Messi’s current club?
Messi plays for Inter Miami CF in MLS, having joined in July 2023 from PSG.
Will Messi finish his career at Inter Miami?
Most likely. He’s happy in Miami, though a Barcelona farewell return remains a dream for fans.
How has Messi performed in 2025 for Inter Miami?
Brilliantly. He has 27 goals and 10 assists in 34 matches this year, proving age is just a number.
How old is Messi?
Messi turned 38 on June 24, 2025. His age fuels retirement talk, but he remains competitive.
What are Messi’s career stats as of September 2025?
- Appearances: 1,050+
- Goals: 850+
- Assists: 370+
- Major trophies: 45
- Ballon d’Ors: 8
What if Messi had retired at 25?
He’d still be a legend with 3 Champions Leagues and 5 Ballon d’Ors, but fans would have missed his Copa América 2021 and World Cup 2022 triumphs.
Messi vs Ronaldo – who will retire later?
Ronaldo, now 40 with Al-Nassr, aims to play into his mid-40s. Messi may stop earlier, possibly after 2026.
What are Messi’s most recent achievements?
He won the IFFHS All-Time Best Player award in 2025 and continues to dominate for Inter Miami and Argentina.
How can fans follow Messi’s retirement updates?
Check Messi’s Instagram @leomessi and Argentina’s official pages. His interviews often hint at future plans.