'Unforgettable' - Jose Mourinho pays emotional tribute to Lionel Messi as Inter Miami superstar announces Argentina retirement
Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football with Argentina at age 39. Jose Mourinho and other figures have paid tribute to his historic career as he shifts focus to his club commitments with Inter Miami.
Why it matters
Messi's retirement marks the end of an era for international football, impacting the legacy of one of the sport's most decorated players.
Jose Mourinho has paid a heartfelt tribute to Lionel Messi following the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's decision to retire from international duty with Argentina. The Portuguese tactician, who frequently locked horns with the forward during his managerial career, praised his historic legacy after an extraordinary era at the highest level of world football.
Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning captain has officially brought the curtain down on his international career at the age of 39. The legendary forward, who holds the national team record with 125 goals in 207 appearances, confirmed his decision on social media on Monday . The announcement brings an end to an extraordinary era that began with his senior debut back in 2005.
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