Leo Messi updated his social media and announced a piece of astonishing news: he retires from the Argentine national team.

On his social media, Messi wrote:

Now that some time has passed since the final, having thought it over carefully, I want to tell you all that I am retiring from the national team…

It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts – deep in my soul, but I realise that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave my all – not just in recent years when we won everything, but before that too – and I always fought hard and gave my all for this shirt, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.

There’s not much time left and chapters are coming to a close; this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’ve given my all; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some brilliant young players coming through who deserve their place.

Thank you for all the love over these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you all from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, always cheering you on and supporting you from the sidelines (through thick and thin – especially the tough times).

Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful yet difficult journey. Thank you to every single coach, team-mate and official I’ve had the privilege of sharing this with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.

I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, together with my team-mates, moments we could only have dreamed of. It was incredible to have experienced it all with you. I love you all!

Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.

Come on, Argentina!

*I wrote these words on 21 July, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced than befor