Atlético Madrid boss Simeone on Messi’s international retirement: ‘Argentina have had the two best in history’

Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone expressed his gratitude for Argentina having witnessed two of the greatest football players in history play for their national team. This sentiment came after Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football earlier this week, ending a legendary career. Messi played his final match for Argentina in a friendly against Benin, marking a historic moment in Argentine football with over 100 goals, a World Cup title, and two Copa América championships to his name.

In response to the media, Simeone, a fellow Argentine icon, refrained from choosing between Messi and his countryman Diego Maradona as the best player in history. Instead, he emphasized that Argentina is fortunate to have experienced the talents of both players. Simeone played alongside Maradona and never had the opportunity to play with Messi. He acknowledged the exceptional growth Messi has shown as both a person and a sportsman, consistently maintaining good behavior and earning respect throughout his 20-25 year career.

As an Argentine, Simeone expressed deep gratitude towards Messi for the immense joy and lessons he brought to the country. For Simeone, Messi's greatest value lies in the lessons of fighting on and persisting, even when faced with adversity.