The Argentine Football Association expressed emotion after Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football. In a social media message, the governing body thanked its captain for more than two decades of contribution in Argentina’s national-team shirt and said it loved him.

AFA said Messi had given supporters “the most beautiful journey” of their lives, adding that his legacy and professionalism would remain in their hearts. Messi said the decision to retire from the national team came after considerable thought and was not easy for him.

The Argentine star said he had always given everything for the shirt, for supporters’ happiness and to deepen their pride in being Argentine through football. He said he loved the national team and always would, while thanking fans for 20 years of love and support. Messi also acknowledged his family, coaches, teammates and officials, describing their shared memories as invaluable achievements and saying he was leaving with peace and pride.