‘I leave in peace’ — Messi says ahead of final Argentina game

Lionel Messi has said he is leaving the Argentina national team “in peace” as he prepares to make his final appearance for the country against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.

“The moment has arrived. I leave in peace, I gave it my all,” Messi said, according to football journalist Fabrizio Romano.

“This shirt was my dream, my pride, and my life for years,” the Argentina captain added.

Messi also thanked the supporters who have followed him throughout his 21-year international career.

“Thank you for loving me so much, thank you for your support. I will always carry you with me,” he said.

The 39-year-old announced his retirement from international football in August, bringing an end to a career that saw him become Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals in 207 appearances.

His final game against Benin Republic will be his 208th for the Albiceleste and will bring an emotional conclusion to a journey that began in 2005.

Messi endured painful defeats with Argentina before eventually leading the country to Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024 and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The farewell match has been billed as a celebration of Messi’s extraordinary contribution to Argentine football, with more than 85,000 fans expected at the Monumental. The Argentine Football Association has also invited members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families for the occasion.

Argentina will wear a special commemorative kit for the occasion, while Messi will wear the iconic No. 10 shirt for the final time.

The AFA had previously confirmed that no other player would wear the number before his farewell.

After Tuesday’s farewell, Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami in the Majos League Soccer (MLS).