Lionel Messi has said he already misses wearing the Argentina shirt, less than 24 hours after making his farewell appearance for the national team against Benin at the Monumental.
The Argentine forward shared the message on Instagram’s Stories feature, writing: “Yesterday was my last match, and I already miss the Argentina shirt.”
The brief post prompted a wave of sadness and sympathy across Argentina, attracting widespread reaction from leading figures in sport, including Messi’s long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi had delivered a longer, emotional farewell message after his final match for Argentina, saying he believed he was making the right decision.
“I know I am making the right decision,” he said. “It has been an incredible journey, full of joy, but also with some sadness. However, I know that every step was worth it.”
Messi said the significance of his international career could not be fully conveyed in a short message.
“I have so much to say. It is impossible to express everything I feel in a few words or in one post,” he added. “This journey would not have been possible without my family, who were always by my side and supported me, especially during the difficult moments.”
He also paid tribute to the friends, team-mates, coaches and staff who had contributed to his career with Argentina.
“My friends played an essential role, as did all my team-mates and coaches, along with their staff,” Messi said. “I do not want to forget Diego, who put our country in the place it deserves and who I know also helped us from heaven every step of the way.”
Messi thanked the clubs he had represented for allowing him to answer the call of the national team whenever required.
“I thank the clubs I played for, for always respecting my feelings and for giving me the opportunity to devote myself to my country whenever it was time to wear the national-team shirt,” he said.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner concluded by giving thanks to God and expressing his gratitude to those who had supported Argentina and him throughout the journey.
“Of course, I thank God. Without His guidance and will, we would not even have been able to dream of reaching this stage,” Messi said. “I am grateful to all of you. I love you all very much, I will miss you, and I will always be grateful for having you by our side and by my side.”