Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football has left the soccer world reflecting on the legacy of one of the game’s greatest ever players.

Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on Monday, August 31, bringing an end to an international career spanning more than two decades.

The veteran forward, now 39, made the decision following a turbulent summer that included defeat in the World Cup final and the passing of his father just weeks later.

Argentina fell to Spain 1-0 in the World Cup final this summer, ending any hopes of back-to-back world titles for the South American giants.

With his international chapter now closed, Messi will focus entirely on club football with Inter Miami, the only place fans can now watch the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner in action.

Messi has been exceptional during his three years with Inter Miami, becoming the first player to win consecutive MLS MVP awards in 2024 and 2025, while also leading the club to MLS Cup last year.

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho was among those asked to reflect on Messi’s retirement, and his response quickly drew attention for its pointed reference to MLS.

Speaking at a press conference, Mourinho acknowledged that discussing Messi is “complicated” given the Argentine’s long association with fierce rivals FC Barcelona.

However, Mourinho was forthcoming in his admiration, saying: “There are no words. That’s what we’ve seen, he’s one of those players you’re going to miss. We have to watch an MLS game, which I don’t like very much. There are players that you always miss. And this one we know what he means.”

Mourinho went further, adding: “Because he’s one of those — as I mentioned in a previous press conference — there are players you always, always miss. And regarding him — in our generation, over the last two decades or so — we all know what he represents.”

Despite his clear reluctance to follow MLS closely, Mourinho and football fans worldwide will still have the opportunity to witness Messi’s brilliance at club level with Inter Miami.

Messi finishes his international career having represented Argentina in 207 games and scored 125 goals across all competitions.

Among his international honours are the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and two Copa América titles, cementing his status as the greatest player of his generation.

The post Jose Mourinho Admits He Will Have To Watch MLS After Lionel Messi Announces Argentina Retirement appeared first on Gooner Daily.