Lautaro on Messi’s Argentina retirement: “We knew it would come, but it still hits hard”

Lautaro Martínez said Lionel Messi’s departure from Argentina’s national team still felt painful, even though the players knew the news would eventually come.

“We knew that at some point the news would arrive, but when it does, it is strong because of everything it means for the national team and for our country,” Martínez said at a news conference. He added that he had spoken with Messi and thanked him for teaching and guiding the team toward victory, while enduring difficult moments without giving up.

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We knew that at some point the news would arrive, but when it does, it is strong because of everything it means for the national team and for our country. I spoke with him and dedicated a few words to thank him for how he taught and guided us toward victory, went through difficult moments and never gave up.

Martínez also addressed Julián Alvarez, another Argentina international who had wanted to leave Atlético Madrid during the summer transfer window. The move did not happen.

“I spoke with him, sent him a message and showed him my support,” Martínez said. Although the two players compete for a place in the national team and play the same position, he described Alvarez as a friend. Martínez said the situation had not been easy and wished him well, expressing hope that he would recover quickly and continue showing why he is considered one of the world’s best players.

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I spoke with him, sent him a message and showed him my support. Beyond the fact that we share a position and compete for a place in the national team, he is a friend.