From the Guardian · · 50s
Messi vs Ronaldo farewell
Messi's dignified exit contrasts Ronaldo's chaotic farewell.
In brief
Messi's dignified exit contrasts Ronaldo's chaotic farewell. Messi's emotional Argentina farewell was polished by fans and corporate intrusion while Ronaldo's 1,740-word manifesto sparked chaos with his Portugal coach. Originally reported by the Guardian.
Messi's emotional farewell
Lionel Messi's final Argentina match ended with tears and a capacity crowd.
Ronaldo's chaotic manifesto
Cristiano Ronaldo published a 1,740-word manifesto criticizing Portugal's coaching strategy.
Drone ad incident
An insurance company drone ad lit up Buenos Aires during Messi's match.
Ronaldo's coach reaction
Jorge Jesus threw Ronaldo's manifesto script in the bin after reading it.
Contrasting exits
Messi's farewell was a state funeral while Ronaldo's exit resembled a playground meltdown.
What happens next
Both players must choose to leave gracefully or face unceremonious exit.
What matters most
Messi's emotional Argentina farewell was polished by fans and corporate intrusion while Ronaldo's 1,740-word manifesto sparked chaos with his Portugal coach.
