Following the international friendly match against Benin, in which Lionel Messi scored his 126th goal for Argentina, the captain took the microphone to address the crowd and bid an emotional farewell to his supporters.
After Argentina’s 3–0 victory over Benin, Lionel Messi spoke to fans at the Estadio Monumental about his departure from the national team. He reflected on his decision and looked back at his two-decade journey with La Albiceleste, sharing heartfelt thoughts on all the triumphs and obstacles he experienced along the way.
“Obviously, the first thing I think of is my old man,” Messi said on his international retirement decision, remembering the recent passing of his father. “Never coming back here is going to hurt immensely. I swear I wish I could play here for the rest of my life, because playing for the Argentina national team is the most wonderful thing that can ever happen to you.
“I want to thank my teammates for all the time we shared together. This group helped me fulfill my childhood dream of becoming a World Champion, Copa América winner, Finalissima champion—everything. It has been a true privilege to share the pitch with them, because I always knew I had warr...