Messi and Ronaldo face contrasting international career conclusions

Football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are facing contrasting conclusions to their international careers.

Lionel Messi, 39, has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team after a 21-year career that includes a 2022 World Cup victory. The Argentine Football Association has scheduled a farewell match for Messi on October 6, 2026, against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. The event is expected to be a major celebration involving the 2022 World Cup squad.

In contrast, Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, has left the Portugal national team training camp following a dispute with manager Jorge Jesus. The conflict arose after Ronaldo was informed he would not be in the starting lineup for a Nations League match against Denmark, having previously remained on the bench during a match against Norway. Ronaldo stated he would reveal the reasons for his departure “at the appropriate time.” Reports from Portuguese media, including O Jogo, suggest his departure may be irreversible, potentially making his recent appearance against Wales his final game for the national team.