Lionel Messi proud of Argentina but says final loss ‘will take time to heal’

'Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message,' the Miami star said.

Lionel Messi spoke for the first time since losing the World Cup final. Pic: Matt Rourke/AP

Lionel Messi says the “pain is immense” and “will take time to heal” following Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain which saw them come up short in the World Cup final.

Argentina were looking to make it back-to-back tournament victories but were beaten by Ferran Torres’ strike in extra time, earning Spain their second World Cup title.