Barcelona send message to Lionel Messi after emotional final match with Argentina

Barcelona have sent their congratulations to Lionel Messi after he played his final game for Argentina and said an emotional farewell to international football.

Messi is hanging up his boots after playing 208 games for the Albiceleste and scoring 126 goals. He scored a penalty in his final match for the team – a 3-0 win over Benin in Buenos Aires – and Barcelona were quick to send a message to the club legend.

“From that gold medal in Beijing in 2008 to an unforgettable career, making history every step of the way with La Albiceleste. Congratulations, Leo, for continuing to make Argentina’s jersey even more iconic!” read a post on X.

An emotional Messi spoke to fans and admitted he hard it was for him to say goodbye.

“Honestly, it’s hard to say anything today. There are so many emotions. The first thing I think of is my dad. All I can do is express my gratitude,” he said.

“As I said in the letter, it was a great honor to wear this jersey for over 20 years. Even in the toughest times, I never stopped fighting, never stopped giving my all. Not coming back will be a huge pain.

“I’d like to come back for the rest of my life. Playing for Argentina is the best thing that can happen to you. Like I said, while I want to be here forever, I feel like now is the time.”

Thanks for everything, Leo.