Lionel Messi’s Argentina career turned football into a sacred mystery
Jorge Messi wanted his country to fall in love with his son. That ambition was fulfilled during a brilliant international career that ended this week
TL;DR
- Milly Lacombe described Messi's World Cup performance as 'sacred,' acknowledging the complexities of supporting him despite perceived contradictions.
- Messi's career with Argentina was characterized by periods of public criticism, including his silence on racist incidents and discomfort with public speaking.
- Despite early struggles and doubts, Messi's commitment led to a wave of national love and gratitude, particularly after Argentina's World Cup victory.
- His father, Jorge Messi, worked for years to foster a strong connection between Lionel and Argentina, facing challenges in making the country embrace his son.
- Messi endured criticism for not singing the anthem, suffering physical ailments before matches, and facing mockery from figures like Maradona.
- Following Maradona's death, Messi evolved into a more confident leader, guiding Argentina to victory in the Copa América in 2021.
- His final international appearance against Benin was met with mixed organizational efforts but immense fan passion and emotional tributes.
- In his farewell speech, Messi addressed conspiracy theories and expressed his love for Argentina, highlighting the team's unity and dream fulfillment.