Overview
- Lionel Messi confirmed his retirement from the Argentina national team in an open letter on Instagram, ending a 21‑year international career.
- Argentina's federation has postponed announcing September and October friendlies while seeking FIFA 'Class A' status so suspended players can serve bans during those matches.
- Teammates reacted emotionally, with Lautaro Martínez and Rodrigo De Paul saying Messi's departure is a heavy blow even as they praise his continued influence on and off the pitch.
- Messi remains highly productive for Inter Miami, holding the club records for goals (98) and assists (54) and becoming the first MLS player to record 30+ goal contributions in three seasons.
- Multiple Spanish outlets and Reuters report Messi has reached an agreement in principle to buy CD Eldense but the deal is subject to due diligence and approval by Spain's High Council for Sports, while a small number of sources have prematurely reported completion.