What does Messi retiring from international soccer mean for MLS?

At age 39, Lionel Messi has officially retired from international soccer, stepping away from Argentina's national team less than two months after helping lead his country to a World Cup final.

Messi broke the news to fans via a post on Instagram, showcasing a handheld journal he'd written regarding his decision.

In a footnote on the post, Messi mentions that he had written that note on July 21, just two days after the World Cup had ended.

He added, "Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before."

Messi's father, Jorge, died on Aug. 8 at the age of 68.

Messi said the decision to retire from the Argentina national team hurts. That said, he also wrote, "I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all."

Messi's retirement has MLS fans biting their nails wondering what it means for his future with Inter Miami. But they can rest easy knowing that Messi's decision will not affect his play with the MLS club.

Messi signed a three-year extension with the club in Oct. 2025 and will remain under contract with the club through Dec. 2028.

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Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/