Lionel Messi will say goodbye to the sport he loves today, as the world champion takes on Benin Republic in a friendly match at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
The 39-year-old is set to see off an emotional ovation from around 85,000 supporters as members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup winning squad join the country’s emerging stars to mark his outstanding international career.
Messi takes his leave from the national team as Argentina’s most capped player and leading scorer, with 207 appearances, 125 goals and 68 assists. His trophy haul includes the 2022 World Cup, two Copa America trophies and the Finalissima.
The News Chronicle reports that Messi’s retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Argentina, with Cristian Romero expected to inherit the captain’s armband and the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Julián Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez taking greater responsibility.
Coach Lionel Scaloni faces the difficult task of building a team without the player who has defined the country’s football for more than two decades.
The new generation of stars has already offered some words of encouragement, with Argentina beating Bolivia 4-0 before thrashing Burkina Faso 7-0 in recent friendlies.
One major question remains, however: who will inherit Messi’s iconic No.10 shirt?
Scaloni said the number will remain untouched until Messi’s farewell match before a decision is made.
