Less than 24 hours after calling time on his international career, Lionel Messi said Wednesday he is already missing wearing Argentina’s shirt.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, who scored a penalty and assisted two in Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Benin in his Monumental swansong in the capital, described the occasion as an emotional farewell in front of more than 80,000 fans, with tears, ovations and tributes.
"Yesterday was my last match and I'm already missing wearing the blue and white shirt," Messi, 39, said on Instagram. "I know I'm taking the right decision."
"It was an incredible journey, full of joy but also some sorrow, but I am clear that every step I took was worth it," added Messi, who has now brought his record-breaking international career to a close after more than two decades with Argentina.
Messi retires from international football as Argentina’s record goalscorer with 126 goals – more than double the next most prolific national team player. His 208 caps are also a record, while his 70 assists are the most in the history of the national team.
"It was an incredible journey, full of joy but also some sorrow," the skipper said.
Messi’s farewell at the Monumental included fireworks, an emotional rendition of the national anthem, a giant shirt bearing the word "Gracias" and a drone show over the stadium.
The drone display was mocked heavily on social media on Wednesday after organisers opened it with an insurance company promotion and one of the images showed Messi shooting with his right foot, despite the left foot being the foundation of his legend.
The Rosario-born forward leaves the national team after an era of unprecedented success. Under his leadership, Argentina won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024 and the 2022 Finalissima, as well as Olympic gold at Beijing 2008.
Messi thanked his family, teammates and coaching staff in his message. He also paid tribute to Diego Maradona, Argentina’s other footballing superstar, who died in 2020.
"I know he helped us by being here with us and also from heaven, with every step we took," Messi said, recalling the influence of Maradona, who led Argentina to World Cup glory at the Mexico 1986 tournament.
How blessed Argentina has been to have enjoyed them both.
Gracias Leo.
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