Messi Set to Take the Field in the Argentina Jersey One Last Time

Lionel Messi is poised to write the final chapter of his long career in Argentina's blue-and-white jersey. Following his announcement to retire from international football, the Argentine Football Association is preparing to bid him a formal farewell on home soil.

Messi has been called up to the squad for a final appearance in an international friendly against Benin on October 6. The match will take place at the historic Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

Claudio Tapia, President of the Argentine Football Association, stated that Messi—the national team captain and one of the greatest stars in the country's football history—has been invited to this match to receive a fitting farewell.

Messi has been included in the squad announced by coach Lionel Scaloni. He was selected for this match to provide him with the opportunity to step onto the field in the Argentina jersey one last time in front of the fans, even after his retirement from international football.

Argentina is set to play three friendly matches at home following the World Cup. They will face Bolivia in Córdoba on September 30. Subsequently, on October 3, the team—currently one of the powerhouses of world football—will play against Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires. This international window will conclude with the match against Benin on October 6.

Immense excitement has already built up among Argentine fans regarding the match against Benin. This is not merely an international friendly; it is set to be an occasion to formally bid farewell on home soil to Messi, who has led the national team for so long.

Messi announced his retirement from international football a few weeks ago. Since then, there had been speculation about whether he would be seen on the pitch in the Argentina jersey again. That anticipation is now coming to an end, as the Argentine Football Association has called him up for this farewell match.

Since making his debut for Argentina's senior national team in 2005, Messi has represented his country for nearly two decades. Throughout his long international career, he played a pivotal role in helping Argentina win multiple major titles, including the World Cup and the Copa América.

Consequently, a uniquely emotional atmosphere is expected at the Monumental Stadium on October 6. For Argentine fans, this match could well become one of the most memorable farewell nights in the history of the national team.

Source: Reuters, Argentine Football Association