CORNERFLICK
Gianni Infantino has paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentina captain ended his international career, calling his spell with the national team extraordinary.
Infantino’s message
In an Instagram post, the FIFA president congratulated Messi on a career with Argentina that, in his words, inspired millions and “redefined beautiful football”. He also said Messi’s “magical talent” and humility would be remembered for ever.
Infantino highlighted Messi’s key achievements in Argentina colours, including the 2022 World Cup title, his records for the most appearances and goals in the national team’s history, and the most World Cup appearances by any player.
He closed the message with a line that translated as: world football takes its hat off to Messi.
A career of records
The tribute came as Messi’s international chapter reached its end at the age of 39. Infantino’s post framed the forward’s impact not just in trophies, but in the mark he left on supporters around the world.