Cristiano Ronaldo has urged Lionel Messi to return to his national team after the Barcelona goalscorer announced his retirement from La Albiceleste.

Following Argentina's second consecutive Copa America final loss to Chile, Messi decided to quit from international football, which came as a shock to thousands around the world.Lionel-Messi-Argentina

Ever since 'La Pulga' dropped the major bombshell of his retirement, criticism has pounded down on the 29-year-old. However, Real Madrid star Ronaldo had encouraging words for his rival, as he hopes Messi will reconsider his decision and return to his team. 

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Portuguese ace said:

"Messi has taken a decision and people have to understand him. He’s not used to defeats and disappointments, or even finishing second.

"Missing a penalty doesn’t make you a bad player.

"It hurts me to see Messi crying and I hope he comes back to the national team."

While Messi is on vacation after his summer heartbreak with Argentina, Ronaldo is set to face Wales in Wednesday's anticipated Euro 2016 semi-final.