Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football yesterday after he blazed a penalty over the bar in Argentina’s defeat in the Copa América final against Chile.
“For me, the national team is over. I’ve done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion,” Messi said after the match.
The announcement broke millions of hearts and shocked fans.
Many young players, for whom Messi was an inspiration, urged him to reconsider his decision.
One tweet was particularly amusing. It came from a fan from Pakistan, who urged the footballer to follow the example of Shahid Afridi.
“Dear Messi,” he wrote, “Shahid Afridi retires every year. He comes back after every retirement. Be like him and come back please.”
Others sought to defend Messi, saying that Argentina lost because of other players.
One fan tweeted: “I hope Leo knows that his fans are always there for him and supporting him no matter what decision he makes.” Messi might have left the field, but he would occupy the hearts of millions forever, his fans assured.
skhamis@thenational.ae
On Twitter: @SarahKhamisUAE
