Lionel Messi's retirement from the Argentina National Team continues to generate reactions around the world, with one of the most notable messages coming from José Mourinho, who spent years as one of his biggest rivals from the sidelines.
- Home >
- Soccer >
- Even José Mourinho Praises Lionel Messi After His International Retirement Announcement
Even José Mourinho Praises Lionel Messi After His International Retirement Announcement
José Mourinho joined the list of prominent soccer figures who paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentine announced his retirement from the Argentina National Team, describing his international career as “brilliant and unforgettable.”
The Portuguese coach dedicated a message to the Argentine captain following the announcement of his international retirement. Despite facing him numerous times, particularly during his spell in charge of Real Madrid, Mourinho put their rivalry aside to recognize the magnitude of Messi's career with La Albiceleste.
Mourinho Recognizes Messi's Historic Career
Through social media, José Mourinho congratulated Messi for everything he accomplished during more than two decades with the Argentina National Team and acknowledged that the upcoming major international tournaments will have a noticeable absence.
“Congratulations on a brilliant and unforgettable international career. The next Copa América and the next World Cup will not be the same,” the Portuguese coach wrote.
His message adds to the numerous tributes the Argentine has received since confirming his decision to leave the national team at the age of 39.
It is not the first time Mourinho has praised the former Barcelona star. In the past, the coach acknowledged that Messi was one of the players who forced him to think the most tactically whenever he had to face him.
A Rivalry Also Defined by Respect
Their history was particularly linked to the Clásicos between Barcelona and Real Madrid, although their paths crossed in different competitions and stages of their careers.
According to their head-to-head record, Messi and Mourinho faced each other 25 times, with the Argentine as a player and the Portuguese as a coach. Teams featuring Messi recorded nine victories, Mourinho's sides won seven times, while the other nine matches ended in draws.
Beyond the results, those encounters helped build a rivalry that was ultimately accompanied by significant mutual sporting respect.
