Lionel Messi couldn’t hold back the tears as he paid his final farewell to Barcelona in a press conference on Sunday. Barcelona players present at the conference were also seen crying as the 34-year-old confirmed his departure after 21 years.
A few of Messi’s former colleagues and close friends have hailed his talent and influence at the end of a beautiful chapter.
Close friend and former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez has paid tribute to Messi after his departure.
He said: “There are not enough words to tell the story you wrote at Barcelona.
“The club that saw you grow, the club that you love so much and for who you achieved so many titles until you became the best player ever.”
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Fellow Blaugrana legend Andres Iniesta has also had his say on the situation, praising Messi’s influence on the teams he played in.
He said: “It was a privilege to be by his side for such a long time. He’s number one.
“I haven’t seen anyone do what he has done year after year. The way he bettered himself and influenced the team.”
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