Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid boss, is leading tributes after football's G.O.A.T., Lionel Messi, sent social media ablaze with his surprise retirement. Messi's decision to hang up his boots after a stunning two decades has sent shockwaves across the soccer world. Former teammates, opponents, and managers have all been pouring rich tributes to the living Argentine legend.

Among them was Mourinho, who came face-to-face with Messi on multiple occasions during his stints as manager with Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Inter Milan. Soon after Messi shared a message on his Instagram handle announcing retirement from international football, the Portuguese coach responded with a heartfelt message.

Mourinho's response to Messi's retirement post is what fans have been talking about, given the historic rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Mourinho wrote, "Congratulations on a brilliant and unforgettable international career. The next Copa America and the next World Cup won't be the same."

Mourinho's message is a poignant reminder that some careers are timeless, regardless of the rivalries that define them. The Portuguese manager had been involved in some of the most nail-biting clashes of the Messi era during his time at Real Madrid. Barcelona and Real Madrid have been at loggerheads at the highest level domestically and in Europe, with Messi often at the heart of those clashes.