José Mourinho praises Lionel Messi after his international retirement

Mourinho stated that there are no words to describe Messi's quality as a player, highlighting his performance at the World Cup at 39 years old. He remarked that Messi is a player who will be missed and that he will have to watch MLS games to enjoy Messi's final years in club football. Messi, 39, announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on August 31, concluding a 21-year international career.

This decision followed Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, where Messi captained his team. He had previously led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup and won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024. Messi ended his international career as Argentina's record appearance-maker with 207 caps and leading goalscorer with 125 goals.

The 2026 tournament was Messi's sixth World Cup, having debuted for Argentina in 2005. While he has retired from international play, Messi continues his club career with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami. The Argentine Football Association plans to honor Messi with a minute of applause in the 10th minute of domestic matches this weekend, referencing his No. 10 shirt.