BUENOS AIRES (AP) — The future of Argentina's national football team is now in question following the retirement announcement of Lionel Messi, who concluded his illustrious 21-year international career. With a record of 125 goals and a World Cup title secured in 2022, Messi's departure as captain and key player raises significant concerns about the direction of the team, which recently reached the World Cup final.
In an emotional Instagram post, Messi stated, “I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give. Besides, there are young players coming up who deserve to be here.” His retirement marks the end of an era for Argentina, where he made his senior debut in 2005 and became the nation's all-time leading scorer, participating in six World Cups and holding records for the most matches played and victories in the tournament's history.
At 39 years old, Messi's retirement was anticipated, yet the official announcement resonated deeply with teammates and fans alike, particularly the younger generation who idolized him. Midfielder Enzo Fernández, who made his debut shortly before the Qatar World Cup, expressed his sentiments, saying, “It’s hard for me to picture the next training camp without you — stepping onto the pitch and not seeing you up front in that No. 10 jersey. ... We’re going to miss you dearly, Captain.”
The question now arises: can Argentina cultivate another superstar to fill Messi's shoes? This concern echoes a similar situation in 1994 when Diego Maradona's international career ended abruptly due to a doping scandal, leaving a significant void until a new talent emerged years later. Jorge Valdano, a 1986 World Cup champion, emphasized the rich football culture in Argentina, stating that while a genius is likely to emerge from this environment, achieving Messi's level requires both genetic and social advantages.
Currently, no player matches Messi's exceptional skill set, but there are promising young talents vying for the playmaker position. Nico Paz and Thiago Almada, who both played alongside Messi during the recent World Cup, are among the hopefuls. Paz was recognized as the best midfielder in Serie A last season with Como, while Almada recently transitioned from Atlético Madrid to River Plate after a mixed performance in the tournament.
Interestingly, Argentina has shown resilience even in Messi's absence. The team maintained a winning record during World Cup qualifiers when Messi missed over 20 matches due to injury. Coach Lionel Scaloni adapted his tactics, effectively utilizing forwards Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez while integrating Almada and Paz into the traditional No. 10 role. However, Messi's crucial contributions during the World Cup highlighted the challenge of replacing his influence.
Beyond Messi's retirement, the future of Coach Lionel Scaloni is also uncertain. Scaloni, who has led Argentina to its most successful period, including two Copa America titles, hinted at a possible resignation after the team's recent loss to Spain in the World Cup final. Retaining Scaloni, whose contract expires in December, will be essential for navigating this transitional phase, with the upcoming 2028 Copa America serving as a significant test.
Fortunately for Argentina, much of the core roster remains young enough to compete at a high level for the 2030 World Cup, which Argentina will co-host. Key players such as defenders Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez, full-back Facundo Medina, and midfielders Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister are all in their prime, alongside promising forwards like Giuliano Simeone and Julián Álvarez.
Scaloni is expected to return to Buenos Aires soon to begin preparations for upcoming friendlies scheduled for late September, October, and November, although the Argentine Football Association has yet to announce the opponents.
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