Argentina begins planning for the post-Messi era as an inevitable renewal takes shape

Lionel Messi’s decision to end his Argentina career has shaken a country that has spent more than two decades watching him lead the Albiceleste. For many Argentines, the pre-Messi era is something they barely remember. They grew up shouting his goals and, more recently, celebrating his titles.

The 39-year-old announced his departure after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain. The team now enters a new chapter with more questions than answers. The first question is whether other established players will leave alongside their captain.

Leandro Paredes, 32, cast doubt on his own continuation on Tuesday. He said Messi’s departure carried considerable weight because the team had built “a group of incredible players and people,” with Messi as its leader. Nicolás Otamendi had already said before the World Cup that the tournament would be his final duty with Argentina. Nicolás Tagliafico, Rodrigo De Paul and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez also face questions about their futures.

The uncertainty extends to the bench. Lionel Scaloni’s contract expires at the end of the year, and after the final defeat he said he would take time to consider his next decision. Names of possible replacements have already begun circulating, alongside candidates to inherit Messi’s captaincy and number 10 shirt.

Cristian Romero appears among the strongest options for captain. The defender has been a central figure in Argentina’s defense and has worn the armband several times when Messi was absent. Tagliafico and Martínez have also captained the team, but the next coach could favor an outfield player expected to remain for years. The number 10 shirt could go to a new squad leader, with Lautaro Martínez one possibility because he wears that number at Inter Milan. Some voices have called for the shirt to be retired in Messi’s honor, but the current expectation is that another player will wear it.

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I think that over these years, in this process, we have managed to form a group of incredible players and people, and in that group we had our leader, Leo, and he will no longer be there.