The football world has come together to honour Lionel Messi after the Argentine superstar retired from international football yesterday. Teammates, former players, world leaders and football officials shared emotional messages thanking Messi for his contribution to Argentina and the sport.
Messi leaves international football as one of the greatest players in the history of the game. His career with Argentina included the 2021 Copa America title and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, along with several other major achievements.
His former and current Argentina teammates were among the first to pay tribute to the legendary captain.
Angel Di Maria, who won the 2022 World Cup alongside Messi, reflected on their long journey together. He thanked Messi for allowing him to witness and share some of the most memorable moments in Argentine football.
Rodrigo De Paul, who played with Messi for both Argentina and Inter Miami, also shared an emotional message. He thanked Messi for the happiness and countless memorable moments he gave to fans and teammates, calling him eternal.
Argentina defender Cristian Romero praised Messi for everything he had done for him and for the country. He expressed his admiration and thanked the captain for his leadership and contribution to the national team.
The official Argentina national team account also paid tribute to Messi, thanking him for his extraordinary service and saying he would always be loved by the country.
Tributes also came from outside football. Argentine President Javier Milei thanked Messi and praised him as an incredible person.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Messi on an extraordinary international career. He said Messi had inspired millions of people around the world and helped redefine football.
Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, also shared an emotional message. She said she felt privileged to have been beside Messi throughout his journey and to watch him achieve his dreams.
Messi’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary international career that has left a lasting impact on Argentina and world football. For millions of fans, his name will remain closely linked with some of the greatest moments in the history of the sport.
