Lionel Messi sends emotional message to Iniesta on retirement

Lionel Messi posted a touching message and a picture of the two from their Barcelona days on social media ahead of Andrés Iniesta's official retirement from professional football.

Messi, the captain of the Argentina national team and a former teammate at Barça, posted a special message on social media as anticipation grows for what appears to be Iniesta's retirement announcement.

Messi posted a picture of Iniesta on his Instagram stories as he is with the Albiceleste in preparation for their South American Qualifiers match against Venezuela on Thursday.

This comes after Messi was spotted with Antonella Rocuzzo at the Inter Miami U-13 team to watch their son Thiago.

Along with the photo was a message that said, "One of the most magical teammates with whom I enjoyed playing together. The ball will miss you, and all of us too. I wish you the best always; you are phenomenal."

Messi and Iniesta have an unshakable connection that dates back to their time together in Barcelona's first squad in 2004.

Andrés Iniesta has not officially announced his retirement, but it is assumed that he will soon do so.

The Spanish player, who has played football for 22 years at the age of 40, released a trailer for the upcoming documentary "The Game Continues," which has a premiere this Tuesday.

While thinking back on what football means to him, Iniesta can be seen in the video crying.

Notable football figures, such as Pep Guardiola, Louis Van Gaal, Vicente del Bosque, and Luis Enrique, offer their commendations to the outstanding midfield player.