Lionel Messi has returned to Inter Miami following an emotional farewell to Argentina, bringing an end to his international career as he shifts his focus to the closing stages of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season.

The 39-year-old rejoined his club’s training sessions in the United States after making his final appearance for the Argentina national team in a friendly against Benin on October 6, 2026.

Messi delivered a memorable performance in front of an emotional home crowd at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental, scoring once and providing two assists as Argentina secured a convincing 3-0 victory.

The Inter Miami captain was directly involved in all three goals, setting up Nicolás Otamendi and Nico Paz before converting a penalty in the 71st minute to cap his international career in style.

Messi’s farewell marked the conclusion of a remarkable 21-year journey with Argentina, during which he established himself as the country’s record goalscorer and most-capped player.

His international achievements include leading Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar and winning the Copa América in 2021 and 2024.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner finished his international career with 208 appearances and 126 goals for Argentina, leaving behind a legacy that will be difficult to replicate.

Following the farewell match, Messi expressed his gratitude to the Argentine supporters, acknowledging the special place the national team holds in his heart.

With his international chapter closed, Messi is now turning his attention to Inter Miami’s remaining fixtures as the club pursues its objectives in the MLS campaign.

His return comes ahead of Inter Miami’s scheduled home clash against D.C. United on Saturday, October 10, offering the forward an immediate opportunity to redirect his energy towards club competition.

Messi’s decision to step away from international football does not signal his retirement from the sport altogether. He remains committed to his club career, with his immediate focus on helping Inter Miami finish the season strongly.

His return will also be closely watched by supporters eager to see whether he can maintain the form that made his Argentina farewell such a memorable occasion.

For Messi, the international curtain may have fallen, but another chapter of his football journey continues in Miami.