CORNERFLICK
Lionel Messi said the time had come to bid farewell to Argentina in an emotional address after the friendly against Benin. He said playing for the national team was the greatest thing that could happen in football.
Messi thanks family and team-mates
Messi said his father was the first person on his mind and that he felt nothing but gratitude for more than 20 years in the shirt. He said he had kept fighting through his worst moments and never stopped trying to give everything for the national team.
He added that Argentina’s 2022 World Cup win had been “too special” because it fulfilled his dream and the country’s. He also thanked his team-mates, saying they had helped make his childhood dream come true.
He reflects on matches across Argentina
Messi said it had been a great honour to play in front of supporters across the country, and that stadiums had been full wherever he went. He said travelling for World Cups and Copa America was difficult for fans, but Argentina had often felt at home anyway.
He ended by saying he would miss playing there and would remain alongside the group in support of the current players, adding that unity made the team stronger than any opponent.