Messi Calls Exit 'Saddest Day of My Career'

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi described his retirement from international football as the “saddest day of my career” after playing his final game for Argentina on Tuesday in a 3-0 victory against Benin.

The 39-year-old icon scored a goal and provided two assists at the Monumental Stadium before addressing the crowd to conclude his 21-year international career.

“It was a huge source of pride for me to defend this jersey for more than 20 years,” Messi told supporters during the post-match ceremony.

Read More : Messi Retires as Argentina Beat Benin

He acknowledged the deep emotional toll of stepping away, adding, “Not coming anymore is going to be deeply painful. I swear I’d like to play for the rest of my life, because playing for the Argentina national team is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.”

Messi calls exit 'the saddest day of my career’ (News Central TV) — Messi calls exit ‘the saddest day of my career.’ Credit: Reuters

Messi reaffirmed that he had no regrets regarding the timing of his departure, explaining that the physical and emotional demands of the recent World Cup campaign took a heavy toll on him.

“In the last World Cup we were very close, and the reality is that nothing strange happened, as people say,” Messi stated.

“The match against England took a huge toll on us physically, and emotionally it was very big.”

Looking to the future, he assured fans that he would now support the national team from the stands.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.