Former Paris Saint-Germain and Napoli forward Ezequiel Lavezzi has spoken candidly about his mental health struggles, detailing his admission to a psychiatric clinic following his retirement from professional football. The 2014 World Cup finalist revealed that close friend Lionel Messi and the birth of his son were vital in his recovery.
The Argentine national team has been plunged into a state of absolute uncertainty as a series of off-field scandals and internal disputes threaten to derail the squad. Reports from Italy suggest that a combination of legal battles involving federation leadership and simmering resentment over unpaid bonuses has created a toxic atmosphere ahead of the upcoming international break.
Lionel Messi has retired from international football with Argentina, but will he head in a similar direction at club level? The South American GOAT is tied to a contract at Inter Miami through 2028 and former MLS star Shaka Hislop has told GOAL why the evergreen 39-year-old is likely to honour that agreement before taking on a future ambassadorial role.
Argentina have scrapped plans for an Asian tour following Lionel Messi's international retirement, opting instead to stage a three-match homecoming series during the autumn international break. Lionel Scaloni's side are preparing to return to domestic soil between September 21 and October 6 following their 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced an unprecedented nationwide tribute to honor Lionel Messi following his emotional retirement from international football. Every domestic match across the country will come to a synchronised pause this weekend to celebrate the legacy of the greatest player to ever wear the Albiceleste shirt.
Arsenal’s late-window scramble for a new talisman led them directly to the door of Inter captain Lautaro Martinez. Following the departure of Gabriel Jesus and a failed pursuit of Julian Alvarez, the Gunners turned their attention to the prolific Argentine in the final days of August.
Leandro Paredes is reportedly ready to call time on his international career with Argentina following the fallout from a chaotic World Cup final. The experienced midfielder faces a lengthy suspension and admits the landscape has changed significantly following the retirement of talisman Lionel Messi.
Lionel Scaloni has reportedly identified Nico Paz as the heir to Lionel Messi's iconic No. 10 jersey following the legend's retirement from international football. The 21-year-old playmaker is poised to inherit the historic shirt ahead of established senior stars if the World Cup-winning manager signs a contract extension through to 2030.
The Albiceleste captain ends his remarkable international career as a hero in his homeland, but he had to go through hell to win the love of his people
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has lavished praise on Rodri following the midfielder's high-profile switch from Manchester City to Barcelona this year. The national team boss proudly compared his midfield talisman to Lionel Messi, while also taking the opportunity to pay a glowing tribute to the legendary Argentine after his recent retirement from international football.
Jose Mourinho has paid a heartfelt tribute to Lionel Messi following the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's decision to retire from international duty with Argentina. The Portuguese tactician, who frequently locked horns with the forward during his managerial career, praised his historic legacy after an extraordinary era at the highest level of world football.
Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez has shared a deeply personal and emotional tribute to Lionel Messi following the legendary forward's shock decision to retire from international football with Argentina. The midfielder, who rose to global prominence alongside his idol, expressed the profound impact the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner had on his career and life.
Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39 following Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The legendary forward confirmed his decision on social media, prompting a heartfelt tribute from his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, celebrating his historic achievements.
Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39 following Argentina's 2026 World Cup campaign. The legendary captain leaves La Albiceleste after six World Cup appearances, admitting that the recent passing of his father convinced him to step down.
Lionel Messi has officially called time on his legendary international career following Argentina's heartbreaking defeat in the World Cup final. The 39-year-old icon, widely regarded as the greatest player to ever grace the pitch, confirmed the news in an emotional statement that signals the end of a two-decade journey with La Albiceleste.
Chelsea have confirmed the capture of World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa. The 33-year-old Argentina international arrives at Stamford Bridge on a two-year contract, with an option for a further season, offering elite-level experience to the Blues' defensive ranks.
Leandro Paredes has broken his silence regarding the heavy disciplinary sanctions handed down by FIFA following the chaotic conclusion to the World Cup final, which saw Spain secure a 1-0 victory in extra time thanks to a goal from Ferran Torres. The Argentine midfielder, who now plies his trade for Boca Juniors, was hit with a significant suspension for his role in the post-match altercations.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has successfully negotiated a loophole with FIFA to reduce the impact of severe suspensions handed to Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina. Both players were heavily sanctioned following a violent brawl after their World Cup final defeat to Spain, but a new ruling means they can serve their bans during upcoming friendly fixtures.
Emi Martinez is seemingly eager to form part of the mass exodus at Aston Villa, but the World Cup-winning goalkeeper has avoided criticism for that transfer push from former Villans star Ray Houghton - who has been speaking exclusively to GOAL. The Argentina international has been seeking a move for over 12 months now, as he attempts to “make a lot of money” before hanging up his gloves.
The match ball used in Argentina's infamous 1986 World Cup quarter-final win over England has sold for $3.35 million (£2.6m) at auction. Despite initial pre-sale estimates reaching up to $10m, the artefact from Diego Maradona's legendary "Hand of God" performance drew substantial interest before the hammer fell on Saturday evening.
Argentina stars Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina have received historic suspensions from FIFA following a massive brawl at the end of the World Cup final against Spain last month. The Argentine duo face a combined ban of 17 matches after disgraceful scenes marred the conclusion of the showpiece event, overshadowing Spain's dramatic extra-time victory.
The Argentine Football Association has released an emotional video claiming an orchestrated anti-Argentina campaign failed to halt their march to the 2026 World Cup Final. One month after falling short against Spain in the showpiece match, the Albiceleste reflected on their dramatic tournament journey and historic semi-final triumph over England.
Nigeria legend Jay-Jay Okocha has weighed in on the eternal GOAT debate by choosing Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo. The former playmaker highlighted a fundamental difference in style, describing the Argentine icon as a natural genius.
Argentina
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