Emiliano Martinez and Alexis Mac Allister Pay Tribute to Lionel Messi After Retirement
Tributes Flow for Messi Following His Retirement
Buenos Aires, Argentina - On September 1, Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and midfielder Alexis Mac Allister expressed their admiration for the iconic Lionel Messi after he announced his retirement from international football. Messi, who is now 39, concluded a remarkable 20-year career with the national team, filled with numerous records and unforgettable moments.
Martinez, who earned the 'Golden Glove' during Argentina's victorious 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, along with Mac Allister, joined their teammates in honoring their captain. In an emotional Instagram post, Emi expressed gratitude to Messi for 'making him a world champion and helping him achieve heights he never thought possible.'
He stated, 'Captain, words cannot fully convey what you have done for us and for all Argentinians. I can only thank you for making me a world champion and for your unwavering support. My respect for you is eternal. Thank you.'
In addition, Mac Allister, who currently plays for Liverpool in the Premier League, also expressed his gratitude in the comments of Messi's retirement announcement, stating, 'Thank you for everything you provided us both on and off the field.'
Messi's retirement decision came shortly after Argentina's narrow defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. In a heartfelt statement, penned two days post-final and finalized after the passing of his father, Messi conveyed his pride and tranquility regarding his choice, noting that his father's recent death solidified his resolve to step back for the younger generation.
'After much contemplation since the final, I want to announce my retirement from the national team. This decision has been painful and continues to hurt, but I believe it is the right time... I have always given my all, not just in recent years when we achieved everything, but throughout my career. I fought hard for this jersey to bring joy and pride to our people through football,' Messi shared.
'Time is limited, and various chapters are concluding. This one is particularly painful for me. I have loved being part of the national team. I gave everything I could, and I have nothing left to give. There are also talented young players who deserve this opportunity... I am grateful to my family for their unwavering support throughout this beautiful yet challenging journey... I depart with peace and pride, knowing that my teammates and I provided you with moments we once dreamed of... Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Vamos Argentina!' These words were written on July 21, two days after the final, and after my father's passing, I am even more certain of this decision,' he added.
Messi leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as Argentina's most-capped player and all-time leading scorer, netting 124 goals in 203 matches. His illustrious career includes six FIFA World Cup appearances (2006-2026), where he scored 21 World Cup goals, including eight goals and four assists in the 2026 tournament. He also led Argentina to historic victories at the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and the 2024 Copa America.
Although his international career has concluded, Messi will continue to play club football with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami.