Lionel Messi's departure from international football has deeply touched his national team teammates, with Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo de Paul, and others sharing emotional messages on social media to highlight the legacy of the World Cup-winning captain.

The record eight-time Ballon d'Or winner announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on Facebook on Monday (August 31).

Just as at the club level, Messi has won everything possible in international football. Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, he is seen by many as the absolute best.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes echoed that sentiment.

"Thank you so much for everything. You are the greatest of all time and always will be. We love you, captain."

Messi holds the records for both the most appearances and the most goals for Argentina. Under his leadership, the nation ended a 28-year trophy drought by winning the Copa America in 2021.

Carried by his brilliance, Argentina later ended a 36-year wait to lift their third World Cup trophy at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, before defending their Copa America title in 2024.

During the tournament held last June and July, Messi led the team to their third World Cup final, where they were defeated 1-0 by Spain.

Fellow Argentina star Rodrigo de Paul, who also plays alongside Messi at club level for Inter Miami, highlighted how much joy the captain has brought to the people of the country.

"Your unconditional love for our country, your fight to never give up, your strength to always endure injustices, your leadership and generosity toward every player stepping onto the training pitch, ensuring their comfort, and the care you showed every member of our national team staff... I can only say thank you. The greatest of all time. Thank you for giving us so much joy. You cannot imagine how many smiles you have put on our faces."

For defender Lisandro Martinez, Messi is quite simply the greatest athlete in history.

"You are an example for me and for the entire world, a winner in football and a winner in life. My daughter will be so proud that her father played on the same team as such an extraordinary person. You are the greatest athlete in history, because in football, honestly, you have no equal.

"I love you so much."

Former midfielder Angel Di Maria, who played alongside Messi in the national team for a long time, expressed his gratitude to the megastar.

"We will be grateful to you for the rest of our lives for being an Argentine and for taking Argentina to the pinnacle of the world. When you could have easily chosen something else, you chose to represent Argentina. Thank you, captain. Thank you for everything. The best in history."

Through every good and bad moment, Messi's wife Antonela Roccuzzo—who has been closest to him throughout his journey—expressed immense pride in being a companion on this path.

"It is such a great pride to be 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 so much."