Argentine football icon Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the national team after leading it to its second consecutive World Cup final

Buenos Aires (Argentina) (AFP) - The football world on Monday paid homage to Argentine superstar Lionel Messi after his decision to retire from the national team.

Here are some of the main reactions to the announcement, which left fans and team-mates alike feeling bereft.

- FORMER ARGENTINA TEAM-MATES -

- Angel Di Maria, fellow 2022 world champion:

“It’s so hard to read that we won’t see you in the sky blue and white anymore. I only know that I was born in the right century to be able to see you, enjoy you, and on top of that, to share all these years with you on the national team.”

- Rodrigo De Paul, also a team-mate at Inter Miami:

“Just thank you, the greatest of all time, thank you for making us so, so happy, you can’t imagine how many smiles you brought!! You are eternal.”

- Cristian Romero

“I love you, I admire you, and I will always be grateful for everything you gave for me and for our country. Eternal thanks, captain.”

- Argentine national team:

“Eternal thanks, Leo. We will love you until the end of our days.”

- OTHER REACTIONS -

- Argentine President Javier Milei:

“Thank you so much, incredible man.”

- FIFA president Gianni Infantino:

“Congratulations @leomessi on an extraordinary international career which has inspired millions and redefined the beautiful game.”

- Antonela Roccuzzo, Messi’s wife:

“What a privilege to have been by your side on this journey and to see you fulfill all your dreams. You deserved this story and so much more. We love you infinitely.”