Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has paid a heartfelt tribute to Lionel Messi following his retirement from international football. In an interview with Sky News Arabia, Ronaldinho expressed his happiness with what Messi has achieved and continues to achieve in football. Ronaldinho and Messi played together at Barcelona for nearly four years, making 80 appearances and contributing eight goals collectively. Ronaldinho provided the assist for Messi's first senior goal for Barcelona.
Ronaldinho described Messi as a very dear friend who occupies a distinctive position in his heart. He expressed his hope that Messi continues to bring joy to people as he always has and ends his playing career in the best way possible. Messi announced his retirement from international football last month after leading Argentina to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Despite his retirement, Messi was included in Argentina's squad for their friendly matches during the international break.
Messi is expected to feature only in Argentina's friendly match against Benin Republic on October 6. Argentina will play three friendly matches against Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin Republic during the international break. Ronaldinho and Messi's time together at Barcelona was highly successful, with Ronaldinho providing guidance to the young Messi. Their partnership on the field was instrumental in Barcelona's success during that period.
Ronaldinho's praise for Messi is a testament to their enduring friendship and mutual respect. Messi's retirement from international football has sparked widespread debate, with many fans and fellow players paying tribute to his achievements. Ronaldinho's comments add to the growing list of messages congratulating Messi on his decision. Messi's legacy in football is widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time.
Lionel Messi's career has been marked by numerous accolades and achievements, including multiple Ballon d'Or awards and Champions League titles. His partnership with Ronaldinho at Barcelona was a key factor in the team's success during that period. Messi's influence on the field has been immense, with many regarding him as one of the greatest players of all time.
Ronaldinho's comments on Messi's retirement highlight the close relationship between the two footballers. Their time together at Barcelona was highly successful, and Ronaldinho's guidance played a significant role in Messi's development as a player. Messi's retirement from international football marks the end of an era for Argentine football.
The Argentine football federation has included Messi in their squad for the friendly matches, despite his retirement from international football. Messi's participation in the friendly matches will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike. His legacy in football continues to inspire and influence a new generation of players.
Key points
- Ronaldinho praises Lionel Messi on his retirement from international football
- Messi and Ronaldinho played together at Barcelona for nearly four years
- Messi is expected to feature in Argentina's friendly match against Benin Republic on October 6
