Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has paid tribute to Javier Mascherano after he announced his retirement.

The former Liverpool and Barcelona midfielder has hung up the boots after completing his season with Estudiantes.

"I would like to highlight Javier Mascherano's career break and his new life, which begins now. I send him a big hug," said Scaloni.

"He was a symbol of Argentine football and I wish him all the best. I hope that whatever he does now, he does it with the same passion that he used to play with."

Mascherano earned 147 caps with Argentina.