Retirement: ‘Thank You For Your Unconditional Love’

Rodrigo De Paul has paid an emotional tribute to Lionel Messi following the Argentina captain’s decision to retire from international football.

Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team after years of representing the country and helping them achieve major international success.

Reacting to the announcement, De Paul, who has developed a close friendship with Messi both with Argentina and at Inter Miami, expressed gratitude for the influence the 39-year-old forward has had on his teammates and the country.

De Paul thanked Messi for what he described as his unconditional love for Argentina, his determination to overcome difficult moments and his leadership within the national team.

The midfielder also praised Messi’s humanity and the way he welcomed new players into the national team environment, making them feel comfortable and part of the group.

De Paul highlighted Messi’s strength in dealing with criticism and difficult moments throughout his international career.

He described Messi as the greatest player of all time and thanked him for the happiness he had brought to millions of supporters.

The tribute reflected the close relationship between the two players, who have shared several memorable moments with Argentina, including the team’s triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Messi’s international career has been marked by both disappointment and extraordinary success. After several setbacks at major tournaments, he eventually led Argentina to the Copa America title in 2021 before helping the country win the World Cup in Qatar the following year.

He also played a key role in Argentina’s continued success in international football alongside a generation of players that includes De Paul, Leandro Paredes and Nicolás Tagliafico.

Paredes also sent an emotional message to Messi, describing himself as fortunate to have played alongside the Argentina captain and praising his legacy both as a footballer and as a person.

Tagliafico similarly paid tribute to Messi, sharing a photograph of the two players embracing and thanking the veteran forward for his contribution.

Messi’s decision has prompted an emotional response from teammates and supporters across Argentina, many of whom regard him as the most influential player in the country’s football history.

For De Paul, the announcement represents the end of an era for an Argentina team that achieved unprecedented success with Messi as its leader.

The midfielder’s message showed the personal bond that developed within the squad and his appreciation for Messi’s influence beyond his performances on the pitch.

As Messi prepares to step away from international football, his teammates have begun paying tribute to a player whose achievements have left a lasting mark on Argentine football and the global game.