Lionel Messi will make his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday when the world champions face Benin in a farewell friendly at the Estadio Monumental.
The 39-year-old will end a remarkable international career that has lasted more than two decades. He will also hand over the captain’s armband as Argentina begins a new era.
Around 85,000 fans are expected at the Buenos Aires stadium for Messi’s farewell. Several members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad will also attend.
Messi leaves international football as Argentina’s record appearance-maker and leading scorer. He has 207 caps and 125 goals for his country.
Messi’s Remarkable Argentina Legacy
Messi’s international career includes the 2022 World Cup title and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024.
He also helped Argentina win the 2022 Finalissima against Italy.
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His journey with the national team was not always easy. Early in his career, critics questioned his commitment to Argentina.
Messi eventually won over his country’s supporters. His success under coach Lionel Scaloni transformed his relationship with Argentine fans.
His farewell follows Argentina’s defeat by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
Messi later confirmed his international retirement. He said he had given everything to the national team and had nothing left to give.
2022 World Champions Reunite
Members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad have been invited to Messi’s farewell.
Former international teammate Angel Di María is expected to attend. Di María retired from international football in 2024.
Several younger players will also share the occasion with Messi.
Franco Mastantuono and other emerging talents represent the next generation of Argentine football.
Some of them were not born when Messi made his Argentina debut in 2005.
“It’s going to be an unforgettable day for everyone,” Scaloni said.
The coach has acknowledged the challenge of replacing Messi but believes Argentina has enough talent to continue competing at the highest level.
Romero Set to Lead New Era
Cristian Romero is expected to become Argentina’s next captain.
The defender has emerged as one of the team’s senior leaders. Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez are also expected to play key roles.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and Lautaro Martinez are next in Argentina’s captaincy hierarchy.
The new generation has already produced impressive results without Messi.
Argentina beat Bolivia 4-0 in Cordoba before defeating Burkina Faso 7-0 at the Monumental.
Young players such as Mastantuono and Gianluca Prestianni scored their first international goals against Burkina Faso.
Messi’s No. 10 Remains Unclaimed
One question will remain after Messi’s final match: who will wear Argentina’s iconic No. 10 shirt?
Scaloni has said the shirt will remain unused until Messi’s farewell.
“We won’t give the number 10 to anyone until Leo’s match takes place,” Scaloni said. “After that, we’ll see.”
For Argentina, Tuesday will therefore mark more than a farewell.
It will also signal the beginning of the post-Messi era for a team that has enjoyed one of the most successful periods in its history.
