Real Madrid manager José Mourinho praised Lionel Messi following the Argentina star’s decision to retire from international soccer, saying the sport will miss one of its defining players of the past two decades.
“There are no words to describe his quality as a player,” Mourinho said at a news conference. “He’s a player we’ll miss.”
Mourinho, whose career has included some of the biggest rivalries in European soccer, put those rivalries aside while reflecting on Messi’s longevity and influence.
“With what he did at the World Cup, at 39 years old ... we’ll have to watch some MLS games to enjoy his last years,” Mourinho said. “I don’t know if it will be a season or seasons.”
Messi announced his retirement from international soccer on Aug. 31 after a 21-year career with Argentina. His final appearance for the national team came in the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain.
The 39-year-old Messi finishes his international career as Argentina’s record holder for appearances and goals, with 207 caps and 125 goals. He played in six World Cups, beginning in 2006, and helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup.
Messi also led Argentina to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024 and the Finalissima title in 2022.
“He’s one of those players who, as I said the other day, you always miss,” Mourinho said. “This player, for our generation, over these last two decades, we all know what he represents.”
Mourinho had also paid tribute to Messi in a comment on the player’s Instagram retirement post, congratulating him on an “unforgettable international career” and saying future Copa América and World Cup tournaments would not be the same without him.
Tributes have continued in Argentina. The Argentine Football Association said domestic matches across the country this weekend will stop in the 10th minute for a minute of applause in honor of Messi, who has worn the No. 10 shirt throughout much of his international career.
Messi’s international career may be over, but he remains active at club level with Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami.
Comments
Add a comment