Cristiano Ronaldo shares emotional tribute message to Lionel Messi following Argentina retirement

By admin — In News — October 8, 2026

   ​Lionel Messi wrapped up his Argentina career with a 3-0 win against Benin on Tuesday -Credit:Marcelo Endelli, Getty ImagesCristiano Ronaldo has shared a gracious message to Lionel Messi following his long-time rival’s retirement from international football.Messi converted a penalty in his final match for Argentina against Benin on Tuesday. His 126th goal for his nation arrived in his 208th appearance during an emotional evening in Buenos Aires.The 39-year-old received an extraordinary farewell at the Estadio Monumental, with a drone display honoring his greatest moments in an Argentina jersey after the game. Messi then gave a tear-filled address to his teammates and fans, describing his international career as “the most wonderful thing that can happen.”Pep Guardiola to return to Manchester City in show of solidarity amidst turmoilCristiano Ronaldo delivers brutal Portugal ‘ultimatum’ after Jorge Jesus ‘broke his word’ -Credit:Nicolò Campo, LightRocket via Getty ImagesMessi was pivotal in Argentina’s FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022, their first championship since 1986, and his goals helped Lionel Scaloni’s team advance to the final once more this summer, though they were defeated by Spain. His status as one of the game’s legends is unquestioned and reflected in the message from Ronaldo.Posting on Instagram, Ronaldo stated via The Mirror: “Leo, so many years defending your country and a history that will last forever. All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A hug.”The 41-year-old’s remarks – coming after his own international career potentially came to a less picturesque ending – appeared beneath Messi’s statement, which declared: “Yesterday was my last game and I already miss wearing blue and white. I know I’m making the right decision. It was an incredible road, filled with joys and also some sorrows, but I’m clear that it was worth every step I took.”And I’m left with a lot to say. It is impossible for me to express everything I feel in a few words or in a post. This trip would have been impossible without my family, who always stood by my side and supported me, especially during the difficult times, when I needed it most.To listen to the latest episode of ‘All Out Soccer’ – CLICK HERE”They were also indispensable my friends, all the colleagues and technicians I had, along with their technical bodies. I don’t want to forget Diego [Maradona], who put our country where it deserved to be and who, as I always say, I know that he helped us being here with us and also from heaven, in every step we took.”Thanks to the clubs I played in, for always respecting my feelings and allowing me to dedicate myself to my country when it was time to put on the national team shirt. And, of course, thank God: without His guidance and His will, we wouldn’t even be dreaming of having come this far.”I am a grateful person. I love you so much, I will miss you and I will always thank you for being by our side, by my side.”Though he has bid farewell to A  

Content Source: Yahoo News

Image Credit: Getty Images

All rights to the news content and images belong to their respective copyright owners.