Come back Leo Messi : Argentina President

Messi, 29, made the shock announcement yesterday after losing to Chile in the Copa America final via penalty shootout.

‘The national team is over for me,’ Messi Told the Argentine network TyC Sports. ‘It’s been four finals, it’s not meant for me. I tried. It was the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn’t get it, so I think it’s over.’

Fans have largely held Messi responsible for not delivering a World Cup title, despite his renowned prowess, believing Mess should have followed in the footsteps of the great Diego Maradona and his success at the 1986 World Cup.

On top of everything, I missed the penalty kick, Messi told TyC. ‘I think there are a lot of people who want this, who obviously are not satisfied, as we are not satisfied reaching a final and not winning it.’

But teammate Sergio Romero said Messi spoke in the heat of the moment and should reconsider.

‘It’s sad because once again a beautiful chance slipped away,’ the Argentine goalkeeper told ABC.

But Romero isn’t the only one asking the striker to reconsider, with Argentine President Mauricio Macri imploring fans to support Messi on Twitter.

‘More than ever I feel great pride for our team. I hope we can continue to have the joy of seeing the world’s best player for many years.’

President Macri finished his tweet with ‘#NoTeVayasLio’ (Don’t leave Lio) - a hashtag that trended globally following Messi’s announcement.

Messi has experienced some success in Argentina’s colours, after winning the under-20 and Olympic (under-23) titles for his country.

He’s also claimed four Champions League titles and eight Spanish League titles with Barcelona.