Following Tuesday’s friendly match against Benin and during the farewell ceremony held at the center of the pitch at the Monumental stadium. Lionel Messi spoke to bid farewell to Argentina: “Playing with this team was the best thing that ever happened to me in my life,” he stated.
On a historic night for both Argentine and world football, the Argentine captain reflected on his career. He thanked the fans, his teammates, and his family. He remembered his father and outlined his journey wearing the *Albiceleste* jersey.
“Today I am living through the saddest day of my career, having to say goodbye to you all and to the National Team,” he declared before a cheering crowd.
“It is very difficult to say anything today; there are so many emotions. The first thing I think of is my dad,” Messi confessed as he began his farewell remarks.
Messi highlighted perseverance as the cornerstone of his international career. “I have nothing but gratitude; even in the worst moments, I never stopped fighting, struggling, and giving my all.”
He remarked that “experiencing the last World Cup was already a huge deal for me. We had the dream of becoming world champions again. We came very close; nothing strange happened, contrary to what everyone says. The match against England took a massive toll on us.”
Also he emphasized the commitment of his teammates: “Have no doubt that every teammate I played alongside always gave everything for this jersey—always. I can tell you that we are an extraordinary group, and that is why we achieved everything we did.”
“I was lucky enough to travel across the country—I’ve been everywhere—and you always filled the stadiums and stood by us wherever we went. I will always be grateful for that,” he asserted while addressing the massive fanbase. He said that among his fondest memories is the reunion with the fans following the triumph at Qatar 2022: “I experienced one of the best moments of my career in this place. When we played again after becoming champions—that was the most beautiful thing that ever happened to me.”
Finally, Messi looked ahead to the challenges of a generational transition and called on the public to maintain their unconditional support for the team: “I am saying goodbye to the National Team; I’m going to miss you all, and I’m going to miss the team. But now it’s my turn to be on that side,” he said, pointing toward the stands.
The friendly match ended in a 3–0 victory for Argentina, featuring a penalty goal from Messi and strikes by Nicolás Otamendi. Also who bid farewell to the National Team that night and Nicolás Paz. Both following assists from the star from Rosario.
With information from Prensa Latina
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