Retirement: ‘We’re grateful’ – Di Maria hails Lionel Messi for choosing Argentina over Spain, Italy, Brazil

Former Argentina international Angel Di Maria has praised Lionel Messi for choosing to represent Argentina despite having the option to play for Spain, Brazil or Italy.

Di Maria shared the emotional message on Instagram following Messi’s announcement that he will retire from international football. He described Messi as the greatest footballer in history and thanked him for his commitment to Argentina.

Messi, 39, announced his decision weeks after Argentina suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. His decision also came shortly after the death of his father.

Reacting to the announcement, Di Maria expressed gratitude for Messi’s decision to represent Argentina and his contribution to the country’s success.

“We will remain grateful to you for our entire lives because you are Argentine, and because you raised the name of Argentina to the top of the world.

“And because you chose to be Argentine at a time when you could have easily chosen another country. Thank you, Captain. Thank you for everything. The best in history.”

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Messi and Di Maria shared a successful international career, helping Argentina win four major trophies, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa America in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 Finalissima.