Jose Mourinho has admitted that Lionel Messi remains one of the few footballers whose greatness is difficult to put into words as the Argentine approaches the final stage of his international career.

The Real Madrid manager made the comments while speaking to reporters ahead of his team’s LaLiga meeting with Real Betis on Friday. He was asked about Messi’s decision to bring his Argentina career to an end.

Rather than focusing on the retirement announcement itself, Mourinho chose to reflect on the impact Messi has had on football over the past two decades.

According to the Portuguese coach, Messi’s performances and extraordinary ability have made him a player who cannot easily be described.

He also suggested that fans should appreciate the remaining years of the Inter Miami star’s career.

Mourinho pointed to Messi’s continued influence even at the age of 39, saying the veteran has continued to demonstrate the qualities that made him one of the greatest players of his generation.

The former Chelsea and Manchester United manager added that football supporters will inevitably feel the absence of Messi once he eventually walks away from the sport.

With Messi now playing in Major League Soccer, Mourinho joked that fans may have to watch MLS matches more regularly to enjoy the final chapters of the Argentine’s remarkable career.

Messi’s influence has stretched far beyond his goals and trophies, with his consistency and longevity establishing him as one of football’s most recognisable figures.