Messi retires from Argentina, league pauses games and team looks to next generation

Lionel Messi announced his departure from the Argentina national side, ending a two‑decade international career that saw him become the nation’s appearance leader with 207 caps and a record 125 goals. The Argentine Football Association said league fixtures this weekend will be interrupted at the ten‑minute mark for a minute of applause in his honor. With Messi gone, teammates such as Enzo Fernández reflected on his impact while coach Lionel Scaloni faces the task of rebuilding, and attention has turned to emerging players including Nico Paz and Thiago Almada. Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami under a contract that runs until the end of the 2028 season.