Ronaldinho has sent an affectionate message to Lionel Messi after the Argentine’s farewell to the national team, recalling a bond that began in Barcelona and grew into one of football’s defining friendships.
The Brazilian, who shared a dressing room with Messi during the Argentine’s first years at Barcelona, said he was proud to have witnessed the start of a career that would leave its mark far beyond Argentina.
“It has been such a pleasure and such a joy to have been part of your story from the very beginning, brother,” Ronaldinho wrote. “You made us smile and enjoy football so much. Your name belongs in the history of your country and of the whole world.”
A shared World Cup dream
Ronaldinho also reflected on the World Cup triumphs that completed both players’ international journeys: Brazil’s success with him and Argentina’s eventual title with Messi.
He praised Messi’s commitment to Argentina, saying the forward had given everything for the national side and for his country.
“I understand you perfectly,” Ronaldinho added, referring to Messi’s decision and the importance of family in such moments. “I know that everything connected with family makes us reconsider things. Enjoy life, brother. I wish you the best, today and always.”
For Ronaldinho, Messi’s Argentina farewell carries the weight of a relationship formed in Catalonia, when the Brazilian was Barcelona’s leading figure and Messi was taking his first steps into senior football. Their paths later carried them to separate World Cup celebrations, but Ronaldinho’s tribute underlined the enduring connection between two generations of South American greatness.
