New Argentina captain Cristian Romero has revealed that Lionel Messi played a key role in picking him as the next leader. He recalled the video of fans applauding him after Argentina’s win over England at the FIFA World Cup, saying it made him emotional.
Speaking to Adidas Football’s social media team, Romero said he does not regret doing anything to show his love for Messi. He was paying tribute to the 39-year-old, who is set to play in his farewell match next week, and said:
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“I always get emotional watching the video from when we beat England. Everyone was applauding him, and he was pointing to the team. He chose me to be captain, and that’s something beautiful. My way of showing love is pretty rough, but I told him I regret not showing him all the love I always had for him.” (via All About Argentina)
Lisandro Martinez also spoke to the Adidas Football team, hailing Messi as the one who united the country. He believes that the 39-year-old will leave with a massive legacy behind and said:
“Leo didn’t just unite the players in the national team. He united an entire country. That is the legacy he leaves behind. I wish it could have lasted forever. We have so much love for him, and that love will stay with us for the rest of our lives. It’s incredible how one person can have such a huge impact and change everything.”
“He is an example for everyone. He went through many difficult moments with the national team, but he never gave up. He always wanted to keep going and keep winning with Argentina. When I was going through my injury, I thought about my own life and asked myself: ‘How can I come back as the best version of myself?’ Leo played a very important role for me during that time….” (via All About Argentina)
Lionel Messi will play his final match for Argentina on October 6, when they face Benin in a friendly.
Argentina legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has already announced his retirement from international football. However, the football federation and Lionel Scaloni convinced him to play one last time in front of the home crowd.
The 39-year-old has accepted the invitation and will be leading the side in the friendly next week. Lionel Messi has scored 125 goals in his 207 matches for the national side.
Edited by Sripad
