Copa America 2016 Finals: Argentina Star Lionel Messi Announces Retirement From International Football After Loss to Chile
After losing the Copa America Centenario title versus back-to-back champions Chile on Sunday, Argentina's star player Lionel Messi announced that he will not be playing for the national team.
'It Hurst Not to Be a Champion'
The 29-year-old forward missed the penalty shootout during the finals match, which cost Argentina another title in a span of 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," Messi said.
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Though Messi has been greatly recognized for his stint with FC Barcelona, his international plays with Argentina were not that impressive, winning only a gold during the 2008 Olympics. For the 2014 World Cup, Argentina bowed to Germany and also failed to clinch Copa America titles versus Chile and Brazil.
Tough Desicion for Argentine Player
Messi said that for all those finals matches, he gave his best but still ended on the losing end. He noted that despite years of trying, he remained unsuccessful; thus, pushing him to end his international football career.
The Argentine footballer shared that the decision was not an easy choice for him but it will be the best for him and for the rest of the team.
Missed Penalty Shootout
In addition, Messi revealed that he realized his final decision while inside the dressing room after the game. Messi added that he was extremely sad for missing the penalty, which he claimed was "so important" for the team.
For his part, Argentina coach Gerardo Martino said that his star player could have been burdened with the losses of the team for the past years.
"He feels like you would expect a player to feel after playing and losing a final," Martino said.
Can Messi Still Change His Mind?
Though he has already announced his retirement, it could just be the effect of an emotional rollercoaster and that he can still change his mind. He needs to make up a decision after Argentina's World Cup qualifier match this September versus Uruguay. Argentina is also said to be one of the favorite teams to dominate the World Cup two years from now.
However, Messi's retirement could also signal similar movements from his teammates. Argentine players such as Javier Mascherano, Sergio Aguero and Lucas Biglia may also retire soon.
