'A legendary journey' - Barcelona sporting director Deco pays ultimate tribute to Lionel Messi following emotional Argentina retirement
Lionel Messi has officially retired from international football following a final match for Argentina against Benin. Former teammate Deco and his former club, Barcelona, released tributes honoring his legendary career and impact on the sport.
Why it matters
Messi is widely considered one of the greatest athletes in history, and his retirement marks the end of a significant era in global sports.
The footballing world stood still as Lionel Messi finally closed the curtain on his legendary international career with Argentina. Following his farewell appearance against Benin, former teammate and current Barcelona sporting director Deco joined the chorus of voices hailing the greatest player to ever grace the game.
Messi's international journey reached its conclusion in emphatic style as Argentina cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Benin. It was an evening defined by raw emotion, with fans and teammates alike moved to tears as the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner concluded his journey with the Albiceleste. Among those leading the tributes was Deco, who shared a significant portion of his playing career with the diminutive genius in Catalonia.
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