Lionel Messi makes emotional farewell Argentina statement after retiring – as Cristiano Ronaldo pays homage to his perennial rival

Lionel Messi has penned an emotional goodbye after playing his final game for Argentina following a stunning international career.

Messi officially played his final game for Argentina on Tuesday night in a 3-0 friendly win over Benin in Buenos Aires, with the iconic No 10 scoring the final goal.

In front of more than 85,000 fans at Monumental Stadium, the 39-year-old was celebrated for all he achieved for Argentina – which included captaining them to 2022 World Cup glory.

And taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Messi expressed his gratitude and love for all the support he has received over the years.

Lionel Messi’s statement

‘Yesterday was my last game and I already miss wearing the blue and white,’ he wrote. ‘I know I’m making the right decision. It was an incredible journey, full of joys and also some sadness, but I’m clear that every step I took was worth it.

‘And I have many things left to say. It’s impossible for me to express everything I feel in words or in a post. This journey would have been impossible without my family, who was always by my side and supported me, especially in difficult moments when I needed it the most.

‘My friends, all the team-mates I had, along with their technical staff, were also essential. I don’t want to forget Diego [Maradona], who put our country where it deserved to be and, as I always say, I know he helped us by being here with us and also from heaven, in every step we took.

‘Thanks to the clubs I played for, for always respecting my feelings and allowing me to dedicate myself to my country when it came to wearing the Seleccion jersey. And, of course, thanks to God: without His guidance and will, we wouldn’t even be dreaming of having made it this far.

‘I’m grateful. I love you all very much, I’ll miss you, and I’ll always be grateful for having been by our side, by my side.’

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute to Messi in the comments, in a sign of mutual respect.

The pair have vied for recognition as the greatest player of their generation throughout their illustrious careers, but Ronaldo, who is embroiled in a dispute with Portugal, put that to the side.

‘Leo, after so many years of defending your country, you’ve made history that will last forever. I have the utmost respect for what you’ve accomplished with Argentina. A hug,’ Ronaldo said.

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