‘Not just Argentina, but the whole world thanks you’: Neymar's heartfelt farewell message to Messi
Neymar has penned a heartfelt message for Lionel Messi ahead of the Argentine great's expected final appearance for his country when Argentina host Benin in a friendly in the early hours of Wednesday.
Taking to Instagram, Neymar paid tribute to his former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain teammate, saying the whole football world had been fortunate to watch Messi throughout his illustrious career.
"Everyone who loves football has enjoyed having you around all these years... today is your last match in the shirt of your team and your country, and I hope you enjoy every second, and that all the greetings you will receive today make you happy," Neymar wrote.
The Brazilian star went on to say that Messi's contribution to football deserved appreciation far beyond Argentina.
"It is not just Argentina that thanks you, but the whole world thanks you for everything you have done for football," Neymar added. "Thank you for making me love football even more; it was an honor for me to play against you, and it was an even greater honor to make history alongside you."
Neymar and Messi shared some of the biggest moments of their club careers. The pair played together at Barcelona from 2013 to 2017 before reuniting at PSG in 2021, remaining teammates until Neymar's departure in 2023.
Their time together produced countless memorable moments, while their friendship extended beyond their club rivalry and international careers.
Messi is set to to bring the curtain down on his Argentina career against Benin, having already cemented his legacy as the captain who led the country to the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles.
As the 39-year-old prepares for what would be his final appearance in the Albiceleste shirt, Neymar's message offered an emotional tribute from one of Messi's closest teammates and footballing contemporaries.
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