“The best in history, an extraterrestrial”: players pay tribute to Messi

“The best in history, an extraterrestrial”: that was the verdict in tributes from players as Messi said goodbye to the national team. His final match for Argentina, against Benin, was followed by a wave of reactions. They conveyed both admiration for his football and the significance of his departure to those who have played alongside him or faced him.

Ronaldinho sent one of the most heartfelt messages. He recalled the joy of being part of Messi’s story from its earliest days, and the happiness Messi had brought to football fans. “Your name is written into the history of your country and the whole world,” he wrote. He also reflected on the shared dream of representing their nation and becoming world champions, before wishing his “brother” well for what comes next. Ronaldinho acknowledged, too, that matters involving family can make people reconsider their priorities.

Another tribute focused on the reach of Messi’s career. Its author wrote that the whole world was grateful for what Messi had done for football, and hoped he would enjoy every moment of his final appearance in his national-team shirt. The message also described it as an honour to have played against him and later shared historic moments with him.

The reactions also treated Messi’s choice to leave the national team with respect, rather than as a cause for reproach. In a message about his farewell, he was described as a unique player and one of the best in the world; its author recalled that Messi had won the World Cup he wanted and wished him good luck. Another tribute called him “the best in history” and an “extraterrestrial”.

Neymar also joined the public tributes. Modric spoke about Messi’s departure after the match between Croatia and Spain. Arturo Vidal posted a message to him on Instagram, while another tribute looked back on shared memories, the legacy Messi has left beyond football and how much he will be missed in the national-team shirt. The messages give this final appearance a meaning beyond the match result: they reveal the admiration and connections Messi has inspired among his peers.