Lionel Messi Officially Will Return to Argentina National Team

Lionel Messi will return to international football after previously announcing his retirement, according to the Argentina FA.

The governing body issued a statement regarding the icon's availability (h/t Eurosport). 

Messi released a statement on the decision, per ESPN FC: 

"

I see that there are a lot of problems in Argentina football and I don't want to create more. I don't want to cause harm, on the contrary, my goal was to help in any way I could. ...

There are many things that need to be fixed in Argentine football. But I prefer to help from inside rather than stand on the outside and criticise. A lot of things ran through my head on the day of the [Copa America] final. And I seriously considered leaving the team. But I love my shirt and my country too much.

I want to thank all the fans who wanted me to keep playing for Argentina. I hope we can give them joy very soon.

"

The 29-year-old Barcelona forward initially confirmed his international retirement after his country lost the recent edition of the Copa America to Chile in the final this summer, per Mike Hytner of the Guardian.

Messi blasted his spot-kick over the bar as Argentina were defeated on penalties, leaving the skipper distraught.

Julio Cortez/Associated Press

After the game, Messi said, per Hytner:

"

It’s tough, it’s not the time for analysis. In the dressing room I thought that this is the end for me with the national team, it’s not for me. That’s the way I feel right now, it’s a huge sadness once again and I missed the penalty that was so important.

I tried so hard to be [a] champion with Argentina. But it didn’t happen. I couldn’t do it. I think it’s best for everyone, for me and for many people who want it. The choice for me is over, it is a decision. I tried many times [to be a champion] but did not.

"

Here is a video of the player's greatest moments for his country:

After taking time to reflect on his initial decision, he is opting to carry on for La Albiceleste.

Messi's fresh decision could have been influenced by Cristiano Ronaldo's surprise success with Portugal at Euro 2016 in France, as the Real Madrid attacker's team won the tournament. 

The Argentina international will not want to be remembered as a failure by his country despite his outstanding success in Spain and Europe, and he might have found fresh inspiration in recent weeks.