Lionel Messi to receive special mid-game honour this weekend after Argentina retirement

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FT Desk

Lionel Messi recently announced his retirement from international football after a stellar career with the Albiceleste.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner made his Argentina debut on 17 August 2005 against Hungary and it proved to be a dramatic start to his international career, as he was sent off less than a minute after coming on. Despite that difficult beginning, Messi became the heart of the Argentina team and eventually their captain, breaking records for both appearances and goals.

His international career had plenty of disappointments before the success finally came. Argentina lost the 2014 World Cup final and several Copa America finals, but Messi never gave up. He eventually helped Argentina win the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa America.

Now that his retirement is confirmed, his final match for Argentina was the 2026 World Cup final versus Spain in which the South American side lost 1-0.

This weekend, Messi is set to be honoured in his native Argentina as every match in the top-flight will pause in the 10th minute (in honour of his number) to pay tribute to the legend with a minute's applause before play recommences.

"For the upcoming matchday across all men's and women's divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi's career with the Argentina national team," the Argentina Football Association announced on Wednesday.

There will also be a video package played before kickoff showcasing Messi's international career.

"I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give," Messi wrote on Instagram Monday. "It was a decision that hurt -- and still hurts deep down -- but I understand that the time has come."

Ultimately, his decision does not come as a surprise as he will turn 40 next year, while in August he hinted that retirement was not too far away as he mourned the death of his father, Jorge.

Messi holds the records for most appearances, most goals and most assists for the Argentina national team.