Lionel Messi announced that he will bow out of the [Argentina national team](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina_national_football_team) in peace, with his final appearance set for Tuesday at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against Benin Republic. The 39‑year‑old said the moment had arrived and that he leaves having given his all.
**What did Messi say?**
Messi told journalist Fabrizio Romano, “The moment has arrived. I leave in peace, I gave it my all.” He added, “This shirt was my dream, my pride, and my life for years,” and thanked supporters, saying, “Thank you for loving me so much, thank you for your support. I will always carry you with me.”
**How many caps and goals does Messi have?**
The Argentine captain is the nation’s all‑time leading scorer with 125 goals in 207 matches. Tuesday’s fixture will be his 208th cap, capping a career that began in 2005 and featured triumphs such as the 2021 Copa América, its defence in 2024, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory.
**What will the farewell ceremony involve?**
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) plans a special ceremony at the Monumental, expecting over 85,000 fans. Former World Cup‑winning squad members and their families have been invited, and the team will wear a commemorative kit while Messi dons his iconic No. 10 shirt, a number the AFA has pledged not to reassign.
**How does this compare with Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation?**
While Messi’s international future is settled, [Cristiano Ronaldo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cristiano_Ronaldo) remains an active player for the [Portugal national football team](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portugal_national_football_team). At 41, he continues to hold Portugal’s caps record and is the leading scorer in men’s international football, but he has not announced a retirement date, leaving his final appearance uncertain.
**What lies ahead for Messi?**
After his farewell, Messi is expected to continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while the football world watches for any future announcement regarding Ronaldo’s eventual departure from international duty.