Retirement: ‘We’re grateful’ – Di Maria hails Lionel Messi for choosing Argentina over Spain, Italy, Brazil

Former Argentina international Angel Di Maria has expressed his admiration for Lionel Messi in a heartfelt message.

The ex-Manchester United player commended Messi for his decision to represent Argentina, despite having the option to play for Spain, Brazil or Italy due to his heritage.

Di Maria took to Instagram to honour his former teammate following Messi’s announcement regarding his retirement from international football.

He praised Messi for his commitment to Argentina, declaring him the greatest footballer ‘in history’.

Weeks after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final and the death of his father, Lionel Messi shared on social media his decision to retire from international football.

The 39-year-old wrote an emotional message to his supporters, revealing that while the choice was painful, it was the appropriate time to conclude his international journey.

Di Maria, who ended his own international career in the summer of 2024, responded to Messi’s announcement on Instagram.

He wrote, “We will remain grateful to you for our entire lives because you are Argentine, and because you raised the name of Argentina to the top of the world.

“And because you chose to be Argentine at a time when you could have easily chosen another country. Thank you, Captain. Thank you for everything. The best in history.”

Messi and Di Maria played a crucial role in their nation’s achievements, contributing to La Albiceleste’s triumphs in four tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa America (2021, 2024) and the 2022 Finalissima.