Argentina’s new captain, Cristian Romero has disclosed that Lionel Messi chose him for the position.
During an interview with Adidas Football’s communications department, Romero said he harbours no regrets about his efforts to demonstrate his admiration for Messi.
He was honouring the 39-year-old football legend, who is scheduled to play his final match in the coming week.
The former Tottenham Hotspur star said, “He chose me to be captain, and that’s something beautiful. My way of showing love is pretty rough, but I told him I regret not showing him all the love I always had for him.”
Also, Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez similarly engaged with the Adidas Football communications team, commending Messi as the individual who brought cohesion to the nation.
He maintained that the 39-year-old will depart, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy.
He said, “Leo did not merely unite the players within the national squad. He unified an entire nation. This constitutes the legacy he bequeaths.
“I wish this period could have persisted indefinitely. We possess profound affection for him, and that affection shall remain with us throughout our existence. It is remarkable how a single individual can exert such substantial influence and fundamentally transform circumstances.
“He serves as a model for all individuals. He encountered numerous challenging circumstances with the national team, yet he demonstrated unwavering determination. He consistently aspired to advance and achieve victories with Argentina.
“During my period of recuperation from injury, I contemplated my personal circumstances and posed the question to myself: ‘In what manner can I return as my optimal self?’ Leo demonstrated considerable significance for me throughout that period….”