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Lionel Messi sent a touching message to Luis Suarez of Uruguay, who bid farewell to international football after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay at the World Cup qualifiers on Friday (September 6). Suarez registered 69 goals and 39 assists in 143 games for his country.
Following the game, his friend and Inter Miami teammate Messi, with whom he has shared the pitch 272 times and created 108 goals at Barcelona and Miami, congratulated the veteran striker.
Speaking in a video, Messi said (via Goal):
"Hello fatty, I wanted to be present and record this video on such a meaningful day for you, for your family, for the people of Uruguay and for football fans in general because of who you are and everything you have given to the national team and your country. I was lucky to be by your side and I know how hard it was to make this decision because I know how much playing for the Uruguay national team means to you."
The Argentine icon added:
"I just hope you enjoy this tribute they are giving you, which you more than deserve, for everything I have mentioned before. For everything you gave to that team. You always gave your all, and until the very last day. You are leaving a great legacy for the people today and for the new generations to come."
Lionel Messi concluded his message for Luis Suarez, saying:
"This is the end of a very important chapter in your career but hopefully there are many more years ahead in football. I am happy that those years will be here (Inter Miami) that we get to be together again on the same team and enjoy each day. I hope you enjoy this night with your loved ones and all the people you've had by your side and wanted close. Big hug, I love you very much, goodbye."
Suarez hangs up his boots following a stellar international career that saw him lift the Copa America trophy in 2010-11. He will now focus on helping Lionel Messi and Inter Miami to a dominant finish to the season in the MLS.
Neymar joins Lionel Messi to send Luis Suarez a message on his international retirement
Neymar also had a message for Luis Suarez soon after the latter played his last game for Uruguay on Friday. The trio formed a close friendship as they played together for Barcelona, forming one of the deadliest attacking tridents in football.
Following Suarez's decision to call time on his international career, his former teammate lauded him in a video message, saying (via AryNews):
“Having taken your team to the top of football and being the top scorer. It is an honour to know you as a person and as a player. Playing against you is very difficult. I always remember our conversations and our moments.”
“I know it is a sad day for the Uruguayans because an incredible player is leaving, but I am sure he will remain in their hearts, in their memories and in the history of Uruguay . I send you (Luis Suarez) a hug, I love you very much and we are always together," the Brazilian added.
Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suarez spent four seasons together in Catalonia for Barcelona, winning the UEFA Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, two La Liga Crowns, and three Copa del Reys.
