Luka Modrić has paid a heartfelt tribute to Lionel Messi following the Argentine superstar’s decision to retire from international football, describing him as a unique player while admitting it was painful to face him throughout his career.
Speaking about Messi’s legacy, Modrić acknowledged the extraordinary achievements the Inter Miami star has accomplished with Argentina, particularly winning the FIFA World Cup the major international trophy he had long pursued.
Messi is a unique player. What can I say about him? It’s a pity that he’s retiring, but it’s his decision and we have to respect it,
Modrić said.
He has done something incredible with the national team, he won the World Cup that he wanted and he’s one of the best players in the world.
The Croatian midfielder shared that watching Messi play was a privilege, although facing him was an entirely different experience. Modrić battled the Argentine on several occasions, both at international level and during their years competing in Spain, when Messi represented Barcelona and Modrić played for Real Madrid.
Watching Messi was a great pleasure. But playing against him both for the national team and at Real Madrid caused me a lot of pain!
he added with a laugh.
But honestly, it’s been a pleasure watching him play because he is a unique player. I wish him luck.
Modrić has also previously spoken passionately about Cristiano Ronaldo, calling the Portuguese superstar the greatest player in Portugal’s history and insisting that he deserves a farewell worthy of his contribution to the national team.
“Cristiano is the greatest player in the history of Portugal,” Modrić said, highlighting the respect he has for two of the defining footballers of his generation.
With both Messi and Ronaldo approaching the final chapters of their international careers, Modrić’s words underline the enormous impact the two legends have had on football and on the players fortunate enough to share the pitch with them.
