2026-09-01 08:28:06
Lionel Messi has been described as “the greatest of all time” by his Argentina team-mates after he announced his retirement from international football.
The football icon called time on his 21-year career with his country on Monday (31.08.26) after winning a record 207 caps and scoring a record 125 goals for La Albiceleste.
Messi – who will continue his club career with Inter Miami – captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and also won two Copa America trophies during his international career, and his Argentina team-mates from past and present have paid tribute to his efforts.
Angel Di Maria, who was part of the World Cup-winning squad, said: “It’s so hard to read that you’re retiring; we won’t be seeing you wearing the sky blue and white colours anymore.
“All I know is that I was born in the right century to be able to witness you play, relish your performances and, on top of that, share all those years with you in the national team. To see you fulfill your dreams, and your greatest dream of all – to become world champion.
“Thank you so much for everything; you’re a legend and the greatest of all time.”
Messi’s Inter Miami team-mate Rodrigo De Paul hailed the star’s “unconditional love” for Argentina.
The midfielder said: “Your unconditional love for our country, your inner struggles to never give up, your strength in always enduring injustice, your leadership and kindness towards every player who stepped onto the training ground to make them feel at home, the little gestures you showed to every member of our national team’s staff.
“I can only say thank you – you are the greatest of all time. Thank you for making us so, so happy; you have no idea how many smiles you brought to our faces. You are eternal.”
Enzo Fernandez, who was part of Argentina’s squad during their run to the final at this summer’s World Cup in North America, admits that it is “impossible to imagine” the national team without Messi.
He said: “I’ve spent so many years seeing you there that it seems impossible to imagine it any other way.
“How lucky I was, Leo… thank you for treating me the way you did, for everything you taught me and for letting me be part of your story. We’re going to miss you so much, captain.”
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