Leandro Paredes has paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentina captain ended his international career, saying his legacy would “live on forever” following more than two decades with the national team.
Messi, 39, announced his retirement on 31 August, days after revealing that he had “nothing left to give” having given everything to Argentina. His final appearance came in the 2026 World Cup final, when Argentina were beaten by Spain.
Paredes said the squad had discussed the possibility that the match would be Messi’s last, but admitted the reality of his departure was still difficult to accept.
“We’d spoken in the final days of the World Cup about how the final would surely be his last match, but even so, we weren’t prepared for that because of what he means to us,” Paredes said.
“Leo’s legacy will live on forever because of what he achieved, for never giving up and for showing that dreams are hard-won, pursued and, in the end, fulfilled.”
Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, completing a campaign that also included Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024, as well as the Finalissima title in 2022.
The Argentine Football Association said his international career had included 207 appearances and 125 goals. Those figures make him both Argentina’s most-capped player and the country’s all-time leading scorer.
Messi’s retirement announcement followed a period of reflection after the defeat by Spain. In a statement published by the Argentine FA, he said he understood that “it is the moment” to step away and that he wanted younger players to have the opportunity to represent the country.
He added that he would remain an Argentina supporter from outside the team, thanking fans for their affection during his 20 years in the national side.
