Mondiali 2026 9 October 2026 Updated: 10 October 2026

Messi and the emotional farewell to the Argentina national team

Leo Messi's farewell from the Argentina national team was an event full of emotions, with a tribute that celebrated his career. But his homage to Barcelona will never be the same. Let's find out why.

Context

Leo Messi, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, had an extraordinary career with both the Argentina national team and Barcelona. His recent departure from the national team has aroused intense emotions among fans, who remember his successes, including the triumph at the 2026 World Cup. Messi has shared unforgettable moments with teammates like Otamendi, creating bonds that go beyond the pitch.

Why it matters

Leo Messi's farewell to the Argentina national team marks the end of an era for Argentine and world football. With his extraordinary contribution, Messi left an indelible mark, not only by winning the World Cup and the Copa América, but also by inspiring generations of footballers. This event brought together fans in an emotional tribute, underlining the importance of his role in the history of football.

Key points

Messi and the emotional farewell to the Argentina national team.
Leo Messi's farewell from the Argentine national team was an event full of emotions, with a tribute that celebrated his career.
Messi or the envy of not being able to send them away like this, for Xavier Bosch.

Leo Messi's farewell from the Argentine national team was a memorable event, full of emotion and gratitude. The fans were able to witness a real celebration, with songs, tears and fireworks, all elements that made the moment unforgettable. Messi scored a goal, which is not surprising considering his extraordinary career, and provided assists for his partner Otamendi, with whom he shared victories such as the Mundiale and the Copa América. The best thing about this farewell is that Messi decided to leave the pitch dressed as a footballer.

However, the great homage that Barcelona owes to Leo can never be compared to this. When Camp Nou is completed and, above all, when Laporta and Messi have overcome the tensions of the past, Leo will no longer be a footballer. A tribute to someone who shows up in a new jacket and shoes will never have the same emotional impact. The knowledge that the last time we saw Messi on the Barcelona pitch we didn't know it would be the last is a difficult thought to accept, both for the fans and for himself.

Recall that Messi scored another decisive goal against Real Sociedad, shortly before Pedro Sánchez's government decided to confine the country due to Covid. After that match, the rest of the season and the entire following season took place behind closed doors. Thus, Messi was never seen live again by the fans, who continued to celebrate each of his goals, dedicating them to his beloved grandmother Celia, who introduced him to the world of football and insisted that his coaches give him space on the pitch. Celia passed away in 2011 and never got to see the success her grandson achieved.

In his farewell to the national team, Messi dedicated his first words to his father, Jorge Messi: "The first thing I think about is my old man". And in that moment, all of us, from home, couldn't help but shed a few tears together with Leo.

What happens now

Messi's future could now focus on a possible return to Barcelona, where fans eagerly await a fitting tribute. With the construction of the new Camp Nou, the club is expected to honor its former captain in a significant way. However, the issue of past tensions between Messi and the Barcelona management remains to be resolved, making his eventual return uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in Messi's farewell to the Argentina national team?

Leo Messi's farewell from the Argentine national team was an emotional event, with songs, tears and fireworks, during which Messi scored a goal and provided an assist to Otamendi.

Who confirmed Messi's departure from the national team?

Messi's farewell was confirmed through his participation in the event, which saw a huge celebration from the fans.

Why has Messi now decided to leave the national team?

Messi has decided to leave the national team after an extraordinary career, culminating with victories such as the World Cup and the Copa América.

What changes have occurred since Messi's departure?

After Messi's departure, Barcelona has yet to pay tribute to him, but the situation between Laporta and Messi must be resolved before an official tribute.