Messi: I will miss representing the national team, and this is how we can achieve important things

Lionel Messi has sent an emotional message to Argentina fans after bidding farewell to the national team shirt, stating that the most prominent thought in his mind at this moment is of his late father. He expressed his immense pride in wearing his country's shirt for over 20 years.

Lionel Messi said after the victory over Benin in his farewell match: "I feel a lot of emotions. The first thing I think of is my father. I can only be grateful; it has been a great pride to wear this shirt for more than 20 years."

He added: "I have never stopped fighting and giving my all. I swear to you that I have wished to come here my whole life, because playing with the Argentina national team is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you."

Argentina captain spoke about the moment they are living, stating: "I feel that the time has come. We were close to achieving the dream of becoming world champions again, and we gave everything, and the match against England was extremely exhausting for us."

Lionel Messi emphasized that the Argentina players gave their all for the shirt, stating: "We have always given everything for this shirt, my teammates and I, and we have always done that."

Lionel Messi thanked his Argentina teammates for the years he spent with them, saying: "I thank my teammates for the time I spent with this group. They made me achieve my childhood dream of becoming a world champion, a Copa América champion, and a champion of the FIFA World Cup Finalissima."

He added: "I will miss playing here a lot. I was lucky to have played all over the country, and that has always been a great source of joy. I am grateful for everything I have experienced."

Lionel Messi praised the Argentine fans, stating: "It is always great to play in front of packed stands. The fans put in a huge effort, and thanks to you, we always feel like we are playing at home everywhere."

Lionel Messi recalls the celebrations of the Argentina national team after winning the FIFA World Cup, stating: "The match we played after the FIFA World Cup was the most beautiful thing that happened to me. Even today, I watch the videos and get emotional. It was an amazing moment, and I thank you very much."

He continued: "Today I say goodbye to you all. I will miss representing the colors of the national team, but I will always support these players and everyone who comes after them. We will remain united."

He added: "We have proven that when we come together, we are stronger than anyone," adding: "To achieve important things, united groups must be built. In difficult moments, the strength of groups shows. We had an exceptional group, and that is why we achieved everything we have."

He concluded his speech: "I am grateful to God for being Argentine, and proud to be Argentine. Thank you all. I love you."