José Mourinho has joined the football world in paying tribute to Lionel Messi following the Argentine superstar’s decision to retire from international football.
Messi announced his retirement from Argentina duty on Monday after an extraordinary international career that included World Cup and Copa América triumphs.
Mourinho responded directly to Messi’s announcement, congratulating the forward on what he described as an unforgettable international career.
The Portuguese manager also warned that international football would not feel the same without Messi at future Copa América and World Cup tournaments.
Mourinho’s message reflects the significance of Messi’s departure. Even managers who competed against him have recognised his influence on the sport.
Messi leaves Argentina as the country’s record appearance-maker and top scorer. His career with the national team stretched across more than two decades and included periods of enormous pressure before eventually producing historic success.
His retirement also marks the end of an era in South American football.
Argentina will now have to build around younger players, while supporters will have to become accustomed to watching major international tournaments without their iconic No. 10.
Mourinho’s reaction is another indication of the respect Messi earned from some of football’s biggest personalities.
The debate over his place among the greatest footballers of all time will continue for years.
But regardless of where people rank him, one fact is difficult to dispute: international football has lost one of its most influential figures.