José Mourinho has opened up on Lionel Messi’s future in football, admitting that discussing the Argentine remains a difficult subject. With Messi approaching the later stages of his career, Mourinho believes the game will eventually feel different without one of its greatest-ever players. The Portuguese coach was full of praise for Messi’s extraordinary quality and longevity, particularly his ability to perform at the highest level even at an advanced age. The comments come as attention continues to surround Messi’s final years in professional football and his ongoing career in MLS.
Mourinho said, “Talking about Messi is a complicated matter (smiles). There’s not much that can be said.” He added, “There are no words that can describe his quality as a player. He arrived at this World Cup at 38 or 39 years old, and he was just as we all saw.” Reflecting on the possibility of Messi eventually leaving the sport, Mourinho admitted, “He’s one of those players you’ll miss. We’ll have to watch some MLS games, which is something I don’t particularly like, to enjoy these last years of his.” His remarks underline the enormous impact Messi has had on football and the sense that the sport is entering the final chapter of an extraordinary era.
Argentina to pause every match after 10 minutes to honour Lionel Messi
Argentina is preparing an extraordinary tribute to Lionel Messi following his retirement from international football. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced that the next round of matches across the country will be paused after 10 minutes of the first half. The stoppage will last one minute, allowing players and fans to applaud Messi and celebrate his remarkable career with the national team. The tribute will cover men’s and women’s football, as well as futsal and beach soccer. Stadiums equipped with screens will also show a farewell video featuring memorable moments from Messi’s journey with Argentina.
The AFA’s farewell message reads, “Thank you for uniting an entire country behind this crest. We are going to miss you.” Argentina President Javier Milei also paid tribute to the legendary forward, describing his international retirement as a major blow. “Messi’s decision to stop wearing the sky blue and white jersey is a huge loss,” Milei said, while acknowledging that the decision “is completely understandable.” He further added, “He left us with so much magic.” Milei also described Messi’s departure as both a huge loss and a challenge for Argentina as the national team begins a new chapter without its iconic captain.
