Lionel Messi sends a heartfelt message to Angel Di Maria

Lionel Messi bid adieu to his long-time teammate Angel Di Maria with a message on social media.

The Estadio Mâs Monumental was jam-packed for the occasion as fans arrived to witness the winger one last time on the international stage against Chile in the FIFA World Cup qualifier after announcing his retirement. The whole event was a testimony staged for Angel Di Maria’s 16-year international journey with Argentina after winning 2 Copa America and a World Cup.

The 36-year-old represented Argentina across four World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022), playing a pivotal role in the finals at Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022, where they ultimately lifted the trophy. Despite the injury, Messi congratulated Di Maria’s remarkable career, bringing tears to his eyes.

Messi shared on Instagram “I hope you enjoy this evening a lot with your family and loved ones. We’ve said everything we needed to say…We shared so much, and who would have thought it would end this way? We’ll miss you a lot. See you soon,”

Di Maria experienced multiple moments of agony with many near victories in the Copa América, a runner-up in 2015 and 2016, before finally winning in 2021. At the Maracana Stadium, his goal was enough to finish off Brazil securing the long-awaited continental trophy, and cementing his status as one of Argentina’s greats.

During the ceremony, the tributes erupted at the Estadio Mas Monumental as the whole crowd gave a standing ovation for Di Maria. The players stood on guard of honor for him and his family before throwing him into the air. The ceremony also featured video messages from former greats and Messi himself, all acknowledging Di Maria’s exceptional Argentina career.

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