Jose Mourinho has offered a heartfelt tribute to Lionel Messi after the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner decided to retire from international football with Argentina. The Portuguese coach, who often faced the forward during his managerial career, hailed the remarkable legacy he leaves behind after an extraordinary spell at the very top of world football.

Messi has officially ended his Argentina career.

Argentina’s captain from their 2022 World Cup-winning side has formally stepped away from international duty at the age of 39. The iconic forward, who is the national team’s record scorer with 125 goals in 207 matches, confirmed the decision on Monday. His announcement closes a historic chapter that began with his senior debut in 2005.

Mourinho salutes a former rival.

Mourinho, who regularly came up against the superstar during his time in charge of Chelsea and Real Madrid, responded directly to the forward’s post. The Portuguese manager wrote: “Congratulations on a brilliant and unforgettable international career. The next Copa America and the next World Cup won’t be the same.”

The legend reflects on a painful farewell.

Messi described leaving the international stage as something deeply painful, but said it was also a decision taken to make way for the next generation. In an emotional statement, Messi said: “Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’ve given it my all, I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some really great young players coming through behind me who deserve their chance.”

Club commitments will now take priority.

The forward will now focus entirely on his club duties with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami. With his contract in the United States running until the end of the 2028 season, the two-time Copa America winner still has plenty of football ahead of him at club level. Meanwhile, Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina will have to adjust to life without their talismanic captain as they prepare for future major tournaments.