Lionel Messi Retires from Argentina, Buys Spanish Club

Lionel Messi's retirement from international football is the defining moment of his current chapter, sparking a nationwide tribute and shifting his focus to club ownership and a potential ninth Ballon d'Or. The 39-year-old legend announced his decision on Monday, September 8, 2026, ending a 21-year career with Argentina that culminated in the 2022 World Cup title.

How is Argentina honoring Messi's retirement?

Every soccer team in the country will pause to honor him. During the next round of the Clausura tournament and other leagues, referees will stop play at the 10-minute mark for a minute of applause. This tribute, organized by the Argentine Football Association, directly references Messi's iconic number 10 jersey. The gesture took place across all divisions on September 7, 2026, just days after his announcement. Messi, who is idolized at home but never played professionally there, leaves with 207 appearances and 125 goals, both national records.

What is Messi's next move in club ownership?

He is expanding his portfolio in Spain. Messi is set to purchase the entirety of Deportivo Eldense, a club in Alicante, from the Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group. The deal, reported by Marca, is pending due diligence and approval from Spain's High Council for Sports. If completed, Messi will be the sole owner of the club, which has a stadium capacity of about 5,800. This follows his purchase of a stake in UE Cornella, a fifth-division Catalan club, in April 2026. These moves reflect his lasting ties to Spain and an interest in youth development.

Can Messi win a ninth Ballon d'Or?

He has been nominated for the prestigious award for a 17th time. The eight-time winner is on the shortlist after helping inspire Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, where he scored eight goals in the tournament. His eternal rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, did not make the cut this year. Messi's nomination comes amid a strong field from champions like Spain and PSG, but his legendary status and recent international swansong keep him in the conversation. You can track his historic career numbers on our [stats](/stats) page.

Will we ever see Messi and Ronaldo play together?

A farewell match for Carlos Tevez could make it happen. The retired Argentine star, 42, confirmed on September 7 that both Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have agreed to play on the same team for his career farewell match at La Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires. Tevez told Goal he dreamed of uniting the two greatest players. While Messi has retired internationally, Ronaldo, 41, continues with Portugal and Al-Nassr. The event would offer a symbolic closing act to their historic rivalry as both chase the milestone of 1,000 career goals.

• Messi retired from the Argentina national team on September 8, 2026, after 21 years and a World Cup win.
• Argentine leagues held a minute of applause at the 10th minute of matches on September 7 to honor his career.
• He is in the process of buying Spanish club Deportivo Eldense, adding to his stake in UE Cornella.
• Messi received his 17th Ballon d'Or nomination, while a potential joint appearance with Ronaldo is planned for Carlos Tevez's farewell.