Lionel Messi International Retirement Soon? Report Claims AFA Planning Special Farewell Match For Argentina Legend As Grand Send-Off

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is drawing up plans to organise a special farewell match for Lionel Messi on home soil, according to reports in Argentina. The move comes in the wake of Argentina’s 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, 19 July. Rather than allowing the 39-year-old captain’s international career to draw to a close amidst the immediate disappointment of a defeat abroad, the governing body intends to give supporters in Argentina an official opportunity to pay tribute to their greatest footballing icon. Nicolas Otamendi Retires: Argentina Defender and 2022 World Cup Winner Announces International Retirement.

While speculation regarding Messi’s retirement intensified after he was seen in tears following the final in New Jersey, BeIN Sports indicate that the forward has delayed any formal announcement. The AFA aims to arrange a dedicated match in Argentina, providing a structured send-off before the forward officially hangs up his boots for La Albiceleste. The fixture is expected to be announced well in advance to allow thousands of supporters to attend.

Head coach Lionel Scaloni is anticipated to select Messi for upcoming international fixtures, ensuring the transition towards his international retirement is managed systematically.

The decision follows Argentina’s defeat in the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium. A 106th-minute goal from Spain’s Ferran Torres ended Argentina's title defence, leaving Messi visibly emotional as he received his runners-up medal.| Despite the final defeat, Messi enjoyed a prolific tournament individually, scoring eight goals and contributing four assists across eight matches as Argentina reached their second consecutive World Cup final. Argentina 'Out' Petition Closes After Garnering Over 23 Million Signatures, Nearly Breaking World Record.

Messi leaves behind an international legacy that transformed the fortunes of Argentine football over the last decade. After experiencing early heartbreaks in international finals, he captained Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa América, ending a 28-year trophy drought for the nation.

He subsequently led the team to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar and a second consecutive Copa América title in 2024. Messi remains Argentina's all-time record holder for appearances, goals, and assists.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 24, 2026 11:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).