Buenos Aires: Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his celebrated career with the Argentina national team at the age of 39.

In an emotional statement, Messi confirmed his decision, saying he had spent considerable time thinking about his future since Argentina's latest final. "I want to tell everyone that I'm retiring from the national team. It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment," he said.

Messi expressed gratitude to Argentina supporters for their backing throughout his two decades with the national side. "Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I'm going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I'll be one of you, always supporting from the outside," he said.

The 39-year-old acknowledged the emergence of a new generation of players, saying: "I gave everything I had, and I don't have anything more to give. There are great young players coming through who deserve to be here."

Messi revealed that he had originally written the statement on July 21, two days after the final, but events involving his father reinforced his decision. "I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of," he said.

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