Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international duty
after missing in a penalty shootout as Argentina lost a fourth major final in
nine years.
“It’s not meant for me. For me the
national team is over. I’ve done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion,” the
29-year-old said after defeat by Chile at the Copa America.
With Barcelona, Messi has won eight La
Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.
But his only major international honour is
2008 Olympic gold.
Argentina were beaten 1-0 in the 2014 World Cup final by Germany
before two Copa America final defeats by Chile on penalties. Messi was also on
the losing side against Brazil in the 2007 Copa America final.
“It’s been four finals, I tried. It was
the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn’t get it, so I think it’s over,” he
added.
“I think this is best for everyone. First
of all for me, and then for everyone. I think there’s a lot of people who want
this, who obviously are not satisfied, as we are not satisfied reaching a final
and not winning it.
“It’s very hard, but the decision is
taken. Now I will not try more and there will be no going back.”
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