Argentina superstar Lionel Messi says he is finished with
the national squad after the side's loss to Chile in the Copa America final.
The five-time world player of the
year announced as much in the immediate aftermath of Argentina's gut-wrenching
loss to Chile, 4-2 in a punishment shootout on Monday (AEST).
Messi's
international stats
- Debut: vs Hungary - August 17, 2005 (2-1 win)
- International appearances: 112
- International goals: 55
- World Cup finalist in 2014
- Copa America finalist in 2007, 2015 and 2016
- Olympic gold medallist in 2008 (named player of the tournament)
- Under-20 World Cup winner in 2005 (named player of the tournament)
- Other: Player of the tournament at 2005 under-20 World Cup, 2008 Olympics, and 2014 World Cup.
"The national team is done for
me," Messi told reporters.
The 29-year-old was booked for
simulation and sent his attempt over the crossbar in the decisive shootout as
he fell short for the fourth time in a major international final.
"It's difficult, it's a hard
moment for any analysis. In the dressing room I thought that the national team
is not for me," he added.
But after the game, Messi hammered Argentina's Football Association (AFA), calling it "a disaster" after a flight delay.
The AFA explained the delay was caused by inclement weather, but it is believed Messi's issues with the governing body go much deeper.
There was some speculation from Messi's team-mates that his statement was more in the heat of the moment than anything else.
"I don't think he's thought about it properly ... I don't imagine a national team without Messi," goalkeeper Sergio Romero was reported as saying.
Manchester City star Sergio Aguero also said his skipper had not told him of any plans to give up work.
"Sadly, the one who's taking this the worst is Leo," he said.
"It's the worst I've seen him in the dressing room."
Messi's Argentina and Barcelona team-mate, Javier Mascherano, also announced he had played his last game for the national surface and there were reports Aguero was also calling time on his international career.