Mascherano (36), who happens to be the most capped player in Argentina’s history, announced his retirement from football in a press conference at his current club, Estudiantes.
He said: “I want to announce that today I am retiring from soccer professionally.
“I want to thank this club that gave me the opportunity to finish my career in Argentina.”
His former teammates and clubs have continued to send their best wishes to the midfielder/defender. Suarez who featured alongside him in Barcelona referred to the Argentine as one of the most important midfielders of the decade.
He wrote on Instagram:
“Yesterday one of the most important midfielders of the last decade retired. A privileged one to have shared a dressing room with you not only as a great professional you are, but as a great human being you are. Keep all the wonderful moments that football gave you. You know that I will always thank you for the way you treated me and received me at Barcelona. Be proud that you are leaving a very big mark on world football. I send you a big hug #graciasmasche.”
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Messi who shared both Albiceleste and Barcelona dressing room with Mascherano also sent his best wishes. After writing about Argentine defensive midfielder Fernando Rubén Gago who also retired from the game, Messi penned his wishes for Javier via Instagram:
“Two people who I lived with and enjoyed for a long time are leaving football and I want to take the opportunity to say hello to them: Fer, dear, I hope everything is great for you?…
“And what about Masche, so many years together, seeing each other every day and sharing so much. We live very happy moments and also some hard times on the court both in Argentina and in Barcelona. We have been missing you since you left. I wish you all the best for you and your family always!”
Finally, Neymar also completed MSN by bidding farewell to his fellow South American and former Barcelona teammate.
He wrote on Instagram:
“Masche .. congratulations on everything you did to football. You are a phenomenon as a player and as a person. It was a pleasure to share great moments with you. Take care and good luck for what is coming THANK YOU @ mascherano14”
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Javier Mascherano played for Liverpool, Barcelona midfielder and Estudiantes during his illustrious career. He made a controversial move to West Ham alongside Carlos Tevez in 2006 before heading to Anfield.
