Neymar bids farewell to Messi with heartfelt message

Neymar has sent an emotional message to Lionel Messi ahead of the Argentine star's final match for his country, which sees Argentina face Benin in a friendly.

Neymar posted on his Instagram account a message to his former teammate at FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, saying: "Everyone who loves football has enjoyed having you around all these years... today is your last match in the shirt of your team and your country, and I hope you enjoy every second, and that all the greetings you will receive today make you happy."

Neymar added: "It is not just Argentina that thanks you, but the whole world thanks you for everything you have done for football. Thank you for making me love football even more; it was an honor for me to play against you, and it was an even greater honor to make history alongside you."

Neymar played alongside Messi at FC Barcelona from 2013 to 2017, before reuniting at Paris Saint-Germain from 2021 to 2023. They shared many matches and memorable moments together during their careers.

Argentina face Benin in the early hours of Wednesday, October 7, in what is expected to be Messi's final appearance for the national team, after he led the "Tango dancers" to the FIFA World Cup 2022 title, alongside two Copa América titles.