Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his two-decade career with the Argentina national team.

The Argentina captain said the decision was painful but acknowledged that the time had come to step away, adding that a new generation of players deserved the opportunity to represent the country.

In an emotional statement, Messi said he had always given his all for Argentina, both during the team’s recent period of success and throughout the difficult years that preceded it.

“I’m retiring from the national team. It was a decision that hurt, and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that the time has come.”

Messi said he was proud of the memories created with his teammates and grateful for the support he received from Argentine fans throughout his 20 years with the national team.

He also thanked his family, coaches, teammates and officials who accompanied him throughout his international career.

“I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team,” Messi said, adding that he had “nothing more to give” and would now support Argentina from outside the pitch.

The football icon said he was leaving with “peace of mind and pride” after helping Argentina achieve moments the team had previously only dreamed of.

“Thank God for making me Argentine,” Messi said before concluding his statement with: “Come on, Argentina!”

Messi noted that he initially wrote the retirement statement on July 21, two days after the final, but said events involving his father had since strengthened his resolve to step away from international football.