Argentina: Several figures from world football pay tribute to Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is about to turn a historic page in his career. The Argentinian striker plays his final match for the Albiceleste tonight against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. Ahead of this undoubtedly special evening, several leading figures in world football have paid tribute to the Argentinian star's incredible career.

After more than two decades wearing the Argentina jersey, the time has come for Lionel Messi to say goodbye. At 39, the Inter Miami player will earn his 208th and final cap for the Albiceleste. With 125 goals to his name, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has left an indelible mark on the history of his national team, notably with victories in the Copa América and the 2022 World Cup.

To accompany this final appearance, tributes poured in from all sides. Among the most notable was that of Ronaldinho, Messi's former teammate at FC Barcelona. The Brazilian praised his "brother's" exceptional career and his commitment to his country, while wishing him well in this new chapter of his life.

Neymar, another former teammate of Messi's at Barça, also sent a particularly moving message. The Brazilian thanked his former teammate for everything he contributed to football and for the historic moments they shared.

"It's not just Argentina that thanks you, the world thanks you for everything you have done for football," wrote Neymar, who considers it an honor to have shared some of the best moments of his career with Messi.

Messi's opponents also pay tribute to him

The tributes are not only coming from his former teammates. Arturo Vidal, who regularly faced Messi with Chile and also played alongside him at Barcelona, also paid tribute to the Argentine legend, wishing him "always the best".

Luka Modric, another of Messi's great rivals on the pitch, also acknowledged the Argentine's exceptional impact. The Croatian midfielder, who has often crossed paths with him, admitted to having "suffered a lot" against the man he considers one of the greatest players in history.

After so many years, records, trophies, and emotions, Lionel Messi is preparing to experience one last evening with Argentina. At the Monumental Stadium, in front of his home crowd, the Albiceleste and the football world are preparing to bid a final farewell to one of the greatest artists in the history of sport.