Lionel Messi Retires from Argentina National Team, Fans Compare Records with Cristiano Ronaldo

Lionel Messi has officially retired from the Argentina national team, a decision announced shortly after the team's loss in the 2026 World Cup final. This announcement has sparked discussions among fans regarding his international career in relation to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi's retirement comes at the age of 39, following a distinguished career where he earned 207 caps and scored 125 goals for Argentina since his debut in 2005. In contrast, Cristiano Ronaldo debuted for Portugal in 2003 and has since achieved 233 appearances and 146 goals.

While Ronaldo surpasses Messi in total appearances and goals, Messi excels in assists, having recorded 68 compared to Ronaldo's 45. Additionally, Messi has secured four senior international trophies with Argentina, while Ronaldo has three with Portugal, along with two youth titles early in his career.