Lionel Messi penned an emotional message to his Argentina teammates on the eve of the World Cup final, which is widely expected to be his last ever game on soccer’s biggest stage.
On Sunday, the 39-year-old will lead Argentina out at MetLife Stadium, where they will face Spain in a mouthwatering clash between the defending champions and European champions.
Messi, widely regarded as the greatest soccer player of all time, has made 206 appearances for Argentina over the past 21 years.
His international career appeared to have reached its apex four years ago when, at long last, Messi added the World Cup to his trophy cabinet.
But this summer, the 39-year-old has inspired Argentina to another World Cup final and on Saturday night, Messi posted a statement on social media.
Alongside a photo of the Argentina squad and staff, he wrote: ‘The best part of all these years wasn’t just the titles, but the entire journey.
Lionel Messi posted a photo of the entire Argentina squad and staff before the World Cup final
On Sunday, the 39-year-old will lead Argentina out at MetLife Stadium to face Spain
Messi pictured with wife Antonela and their three kids earlier in July during the tournament
‘Sharing the day-to-day with this group, competing together, picking ourselves up during tough times, and enjoying every step of the way.
‘Thank you to each of my teammates, the coaching staff, and everyone who works every day to ensure this national team remains a family.
‘No matter what happens tomorrow, this group has already written a story we will never forget – one that no one can erase. LET’S GO ARGENTINA.’
Argentina reached the final with a stunning late comeback to beat bitter rivals England. That 2-1 semifinal win capped a remarkable summer for Messi and Co, who also beat Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland in dramatic circumstances.
On Sunday, Messi will face Lamine Yamal – almost two decades after holding and bathing the Spain teenager, then just a baby, in one of the most remarkable photoshoots in sporting history.
‘He is one of the best players in the world right now, so I wish him the best. He’s only 19 years old and he has all of his future ahead,’ Messi said in Spanish on Friday.
‘That picture, it was crazy. Him as a baby, and now we are facing each other. What a crazy picture. I just wish him the best of luck.’
