THE BLOG BY CPD FOOTBALL | The World of Indian football and beyond by Chris Punnakkattu Daniel

Argentina star Lionel Messi retires from international football

Lionel Messi

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football after Sunday night’s Copa América Centenario 2016 final loss to Chile.

“It’s not meant for me. For me the national team is over. I’ve done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion,” an emotional Messi said after the final.

“It’s been four finals, I tried. It was the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn’t get it, so I think it’s over,” the 29 year old FC Barcelona star added.

Messi made his debut for Argentina in 2005. He has earned 113 caps for the Albiceleste, while scoring 55 goals.