Feelings of sadness and pride dominated the headlines of Argentine newspapers and media outlets following the end of the international career of legend Lionel Messi, who has not yet officially announced his retirement from international play. Argentine media unanimously praised what the 'Tango' captain has provided throughout his career, despite the painful ending after losing the 2026 World Cup final to the young Spanish team. Channel TyC Sports described the scene with a headline that read: 'The end of the miracle... and everyone is proud of the team everywhere in Argentina,' in reference to the great gratitude for what the Argentine team led by Messi has achieved in recent years. Newspaper Olé recalled one of the most impactful images in the career of the Argentine captain nicknamed 'The Flea,' and wrote: 'Messi... with tears different from those of 2016, and in the same place, standing before the Argentine national team fans with the silver medal around his neck, while everyone salutes him,' drawing a comparison between the tears of retirement years ago and the farewell tears that this time carried feelings of gratitude and appreciation. ESPN Argentina summed up the scene with a headline laden with connotations: 'Messi... and the impossible farewell that will be etched in memory,' stressing that the end of his international journey will remain one of the most poignant moments in Argentine football history. Newspaper La Nación published an emotional article stating: 'Messi, the man, and the miracle, lost to the team that chased him to wear its shirt; he represented the Argentine flag with passion, and ended in tears like a young man in his early twenties,' in gratitude for what the Argentine captain has given in dedication and devotion throughout his career with 'La Albiceleste.' These headlines reflected the enormous stature Lionel Messi holds in the hearts of Argentines, as feelings of pride and gratitude dominated the media coverage, which saw that what the 'Tango' captain has provided will remain an eternal legacy in the history of Argentine football, regardless of how his international journey ended.