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When Did Messi Quit Argentina?

Published in Football Retirement 2 mins read

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team in 2016.

The Moment of Decision

The surprising declaration came in 2016, immediately after Argentina's defeat to Chile in the Copa América Centenario final. The match ended in a penalty shootout, with Messi missing his spot-kick, leading to a profound sense of disappointment for the football star.

In the locker room, following the emotional full-time whistle, a visibly flabbergasted and speechless Messi made his feelings clear to reporters:

"My thinking right now, and thinking about it in the locker room, I'm done playing with the national team."

Context of the Announcement

This decision, which shook the world, was driven by a series of agonizing final losses and the immense pressure placed on him to deliver a major international trophy for his country.

  • Year: 2016
  • Event: Immediately after the Copa América Centenario final, where Argentina lost to Chile in a penalty shootout.
  • Emotional State: Messi expressed deep frustration and despair over the repeated failures in major finals.
  • Impact: His announcement sent shockwaves throughout the global football community, with fans and pundits alike reacting with disbelief to the news that one of the greatest players was stepping away from international duty.

A Temporary Departure

Although he publicly declared his retirement in 2016, Lionel Messi's absence from the national team was brief. He later reversed his decision and returned to play for Argentina, continuing his illustrious career and eventually leading the team to significant triumphs. However, the specific act of quitting, as publicly stated, occurred in 2016.