Messi Ends Argentina Career

Lionel Messi's Argentina career has ended, following a brilliant international career. His father Jorge Messi had hoped the country would fall in love with his son, and that ambition was fulfilled.

Milly Lacombe, a Brazilian writer, said Argentina's performance in the World Cup was of a sacred order. She explored the contradiction of supporting Messi, a player she considered a god, despite his silence on racist incidents.

Messi's silence on certain issues has been noted throughout his career. Journalist John Carlin said interviewing Messi was a challenge due to his discomfort with words. Juan Sebastián Verón recalled Messi being nervous when he had to address his teammates as Argentina captain.

Messi's most famous outburst was at the 2022 World Cup, when he told a Dutch player to go away. Despite his reticence, Messi has always meant something to fans, even when he doesn't speak.

Argentina won the World Cup in 2022, and were treated as darlings. By the time the 2026 final ended in defeat to Spain, they had become villains. Lacombe said there was something mysterious about Messi's ability to turn a game around.

A giant number 10 shirt was displayed on the pitch before Messi's farewell appearance. Messi's career has been marked by highs and lows, but his impact on the sport is undeniable.

Messi's decision to end his international career has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans are sad to see him go, while others are critical of his silence on certain issues.

Lacombe said she started supporting England, but by the end of the semi-final victory over England, she was impressed by Messi's performance. Messi's legacy will continue to be felt in the world of football.