Barcelona, Oct 07 (V7N)- Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has paid an emotional tribute to Lionel Messi ahead of the Argentine superstar’s farewell from international football.
Ronaldinho shared the message on social media platform X on Wednesday (October 7), recalling the early days of Messi’s career at Barcelona and their memorable moments together.
Addressing Messi as a brother, Ronaldinho said it had been a great joy to be part of his story from the beginning. He praised the Argentine for giving football fans countless moments of happiness and teaching them to enjoy the game.
The former Brazil international said Messi’s name would be remembered not only in Argentina but throughout the history of world football.
Ronaldinho also reflected on Messi’s achievement of fulfilling his childhood dream of becoming a world champion with Argentina. He said Messi had given everything for his national team and country and added that he understood the decision to prioritize family and enjoy life beyond football.
“Enjoy life now, brother. I wish you all the best for today and every day to come,” Ronaldinho wrote in his message.
Ronaldinho played a significant role in Messi’s early development at Barcelona. The Brazilian and the Argentine played together at the Catalan club from 2004 to 2008, with Ronaldinho serving as an important senior figure during Messi’s emergence.
Messi scored his first senior Barcelona goal against Albacete in 2005 after receiving an assist from Ronaldinho, a moment that became an early highlight of his extraordinary career.
Although Brazil and Argentina have one of international football’s fiercest rivalries, Ronaldinho and Messi have maintained a close relationship and mutual respect since their Barcelona days.
Ronaldinho’s tribute came as Messi prepared for his final appearance for Argentina, bringing an emotional chapter of the 39-year-old superstar’s international career toward its conclusion.
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