“We’ll have to watch some MLS games, which isn’t something I enjoy much, to make the most of these final years. He’s one of those players who, like I said in a previous press conference, you always miss. And he’s one of the greats of our generation,” Mourinho said during a press conference.

Messi, who explained his decision to retire from Argentina in late August, is in the middle of the MLS season. If Mourinho is true to his words, he will have to wake up really early to catch Messi live, as time zones are 6-7 hours apart.

How are Messi and Inter Miami doing in MLS?

Inter Miami are currently second in the Eastern Conference after 22 games played. However, they face a 10-point deficit as Nashville has 52 points to Inter Miami’s 42. Still, they are firmly in the playoffs run.

As for Messi, he leads the MLS in scoring with 18 goals and is third in assists with nine. All this in 19 games played. Messi is still an absolute difference-maker when it comes to providing results on the pitch. Argentina will certainly miss him.

How is Mourinho doing at Real Madrid?

Mourinho’s long awaited Real Madrid return has started well in terms of net results. While the team still needs to get better form, the season is just starting and there’s room for improvement. However. it’s better to improve while still winning.

Right now, Real Madrid have nine points out of nine possible, scoring 10 goals and allowing just two. Having stars like Vini Jr., Kylian Mbappe, and Jude Bellingham indicate that Mourinho will get the best out of them.

However, we should learn soon if there will indeed be a farewell game for Messi. A recent report indicated Messi is expected to play one final match with Argentina. However, it may not be only one game, but a series of outings played across the country, instead.

“Argentina are working to arrange two or three friendly matches in September,” as reported by TNT Sports Argentina’s Maximiliano Grillo. “The games are expected to be played in Buenos Aires, Cordoba and/or Rosario, with the opponents yet to be confirmed.”

One game isn’t enough

One farewell game might be enough to honor certain legends, but certainly not one of Messi’s stature and significance. Thus, it seems Argentina will have themselves a farewell tour rather than a lone leave-taking match. Because no soccer fan in Argentina will want to miss Messi’s last game ever wearing the Albiceleste’s jersey, it’s only fair to host more than one outing and in different venues.

Buenos Aires is a lock. The country’s capital city has the biggest population and is home to Estadio Monumental, where Argentina plays most of its games and which can host over 85,000 fans, more than any other venue in the Land of Silver. Cordoba and Rosario appear to be competing for the other game, while the chance of adding a third would solve that dilemma.

Rosario and Cordoba may have to fight for Messi

Rosario, Messi’s hometown, simply makes too much sense, even if the game would be held at Rosario Central’s stadium, which is the home of Messi’s childhood club’s (Newell’s Old Boys) archrivals.

Cordoba’s biggest stadium, named after 1978 World Cup winner Mario Alberto Kempes, has hosted several national team games over the years. Moreover, Cordoba’s capital is the second-most populated city in the country, with Rosario third. Its location also helps people from northern provinces get the chance to see Messi without traveling all the way to Buenos Aires.

It’s clear a three-game slate is the best solution for Argentina. It may not thrill the clubs who allow their players to represent Argentina during the international window, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Why three-game farewell tour could raise eyebrows

Messi is in the clear. He plays in MLS, where his duties are far more relaxed and he gets to decide when he feels like taking a break. If he wants to play more games with Argentina than Inter Miami would like, there isn’t much the Herons can do about it. Plus, it would be just this one last time.

However, players who compete in Europe may face more resistance from their clubs. As it is, no club ever likes the risk that international breaks pose. An extra game would likely be greeted with a huge “No, thank you” from European clubs. Still, this is an Argentina national team that loves Messi. The majority of the locker room is made up of young players who grew up idolizing Messi and never take playing alongside him for granted.

Thus, if they get the chance to play with him one final time, and do so in Argentina, there’s not much that will keep them from lacing up their cleats. No one will want to miss Messi’s final game in Argentina in an Albiceleste jersey, least of all the players. They may be world soccer stars, but they still look up to the Argentine ace like kids watching their idol.

The last player to wear the number other than Messi was Franco Mastantuono. However, it appears unlikely that the number will permanently fall to the player currently with Fiorentina in Italy. Other attacking options are leading the race, starting with Liverpool number 10 Alexis Mac Allister.

The 27-year-old Reds leader is a key piece for head coach Lionel Scaloni and has already accumulated 54 caps for the senior team, scoring seven goals since making his debut on September 5, 2019. Having debuted under Scaloni’s tenure, Mac Allister stands as one of the top candidates to take over the shirt.

Other options for Argentina

Enzo Fernandez represents another realistic alternative to fill the spot. At 25 years old, the midfielder is also a central figure for Scaloni, who brought him to the national team for the first time in September 2022, before he became a World Cup champion as a starter three months later. Fernandez currently sits at 49 caps and eight goals.

Third on the list is Nico Paz. The Como number 10 has just 11 caps and one goal for Argentina, though it would not be a surprise if he wore the jersey. During the 2026 World Cup, Paz wore number 18. Other names in the mix include Thiago Almada, who has gained prominence within the squad, and Lautaro Martinez, who already wears the number 10 for Inter Milan.

Other wearers of Argentina’s No.10 in the Messi era

Without Lionel Messi, the iconic number 10 for Argentina remains vacant for the first time since 2009. However, that does not mean other players have not worn the jersey in official competition over the last 17 years.

Seven players wore the shirt in World Cup Qualifiers during Messi’s absence, with Franco Mastantuono being the only one likely to continue receiving call-ups. The other six wearers were Sergio Aguero, Javier Pastore, Angel Di Maria, Ever Banega, Angel Correa, and Paulo Dybala.

A jersey with massive history

The number 10 jersey for Argentina represents far more than just Messi. Before him, it was worn by legendary figures such as Diego Maradona, Mario Kempes, Juan Roman Riquelme, and Ariel Ortega, among other icons.

However, Messi’s era raised the symbolic weight of the shirt even further. The star wore it through much of his 21 years with the national team as Argentina claimed major titles, including the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, as well as the 2021 and 2024 Copa America trophies.

On the show “Intrusos” on America TV in Argentina, a message sent by Celia Cuccittini was read live on air just minutes after Messi made his post announcing his departure from the national team.

“I am still crying. Even though we already knew, the whole family is very sad,” Celia wrote. “The important thing is that he is happy. His father always said, ‘What am I going to do when he doesn’t play anymore?’ and it all happened at once.”

Hidden message in Messi’s farewell letter

Messi surprised the soccer world by announcing his retirement from Argentina through a lengthy handwritten letter. However, a small detail in the manuscript did not go unnoticed and sparked widespread interpretation.

In one of the most crucial passages of the letter, Messi originally wrote the word “siento” (“I feel”) before crossing it out. The edit takes on added significance given what he wrote immediately afterward.

After scratching out “siento,” Messi replaced it with a much more rational and decisive phrase: “entiendo que es el momento” (“I understand it is time”). The shift between the two phrases clearly highlights how difficult the decision was for him to make.

Rather than stating he “feels” the time has come to step away, Messi chose to emphasize that he “understands” he must do so—a subtle difference on paper, but a massive insight into his emotional state when making the call.

“It’s a source of pride to see you close this chapter this way” Roccuzzo wrote on Instagram. “So many years, so many moments, so much joy—and so many setbacks, too. I watched you suffer, fall, and get back up. I watched you keep going when things didn’t go your way and always try again. And after all those years, I was also lucky enough to see you fulfill your dreams and experience some of the happiest days of our lives.

“But there is something about this whole story that moves me deeply: that our children grew up watching it all unfold up close. That they saw their dad fight for what he wanted, refuse to give up, and keep believing until the very end. And that they were there to see you achieve it all and lift the World Cup. Perhaps one day they will truly understand the magnitude of your story.

“Today, they are simply proud of their dad. And I am proud of you. Of your journey, of everything you overcame, and—above all—of the person behind every one of those moments. What a privilege it has been to experience all of this by your side. We love you endlessly,” Roccuzzo said.

Antonela has been with Messi through it all

Messi and Antonela know each other since a very young age. Messi left Argentina for Spain at 13 years old, but then they reunited a bit back. They’ve officially been together since 2007, when Messi was 19 years old. However, it’s been rumored that the relationship started before, but in a long-distance methodology.

Hence, Antonela has been through Messi’s highs and lows. The stability around the couple has been shown throughout the years. In a moment of such emotions as a retirement that will make Argentina seek a new captain after Messi, she made sure that her support is never-ending.

Messi and Antonela’s future is still in Miami

While Messi retired from Argentina, he is still under contract with Inter Miami. But more than that, Antonela herself is very comfortable in Miami. The city has a vibrant, large Hispanic and Argentine community, making the cultural and linguistic transition seamless for Antonela and her three children.

Also, Antonela has grown into an entrepreneur and a global brand ambassador for major international fashion, wellness, and luxury companies. Miami is a perfect place for her to develop as well.

Messi is calling it a career with Argentina, but his Inter Miami contract won’t expire for some years, meaning he will remain active at the club level. Thus, he will have no trouble lacing up his cleats for one last game in his home country, and it won’t be a retirement game like the ones where an icon gathers his friends to play and the score usually ends in double digits.

For a legend of Messi’s stature, it would be surprising if Argentina didn’t set up one last hurrah for him, and a report indicates there will be a last dance in the Land of Silver.

Argentine journalist Pablo Gravellone of Todo Noticias reported that all signs indicate Messi will play his final game with Argentina at home. Most likely, it will take place during the upcoming FIFA international break, which will span from Sept. 21 to Oct. 6.

One more game after 2026 World Cup final

The 2026 World Cup final against Spain was Messi’s 207th game for Argentina, according to Transfermarkt. Had La Albiceleste won, it could’ve been the perfect ending for Messi and his international career. Instead, it left a sour taste in his mouth, and it seems playing one final game is the best course of action, especially if it’s at home in Argentina.

Through 207 appearances with La Albiceleste, Messi has scored 125 goals and assisted on 68 others. Messi’s and Cristiano Ronaldo’s international stats are quite even, but the Portuguese star will walk away with the advantage. In the upcoming international break, Messi is reportedly set to play his 208th and final game ever for Argentina.

Messi’s reported last game for Argentina

The official details remain uncertain, however. As things stand, there are no indications of whom Argentina will play then or when and where the game will be played.

Most likely, Messi’s last game in the country will be at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, where the national team plays most of its games. Though unlikely, there could be a chance Argentina play in Rosario to have Messi’s last game be in his hometown.

Messi is leaving and that leaves a huge hole in the lineup. However, without Messi, new names can flourish. Lionel Messi is retired from Argentina, but not from Inter Miami. Still, as the Argentine national team prepares for the next World Cup, it will have to look elsewhere other than the MLS to get its ace.

Other names that are north of 30 years old could also be out of the 2030 World Cup either by choice or by coaching decisions. Hence, the lineup could look really renovated and new.

Argentina’s potential lineup for 2030 World Cup

It is an end of an era for Lionel Messi and Argentina. However, that is not a reason for negative thoughts. Argentina is great at creating new talent. By the way, without Messi, Argentina needs a new captain. This is how the lineup could look:

Some known names could still be there, like the center back-pairing of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, midfielder Enzo Fernandez, or forwards Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. Also, Valentin Barco and Nico Paz were in the 2026 World Cup but saw very few minutes.

Names called to elevate Argentina

Franco Mastantuono, Barco, and especially Nico Paz are tasked with guiding the next generation. Mastantuono is just 18 years old and has a very promising future. Barco has been trusted in Premier League giants Chelsea to be a midfielder, however, his role in Argentina might send him to the left back spot.

Finally, it’s a big task to replace Messi, but if someone can, Nico Paz is the guy. Also left-footed and technically gifted, Paz is an absolute joy to watch. While he has the most pressure of them all by replacing Messi, his talent is undeniable.

Star center back Cristian Romero is expected to become Argentina‘s national team’s new main captain after Messi retired from international soccer despite having years left on his Inter Miami contract.

Although it has yet to be formally announced by Argentina, Romero becoming the newest captain would make sense. The Atletico Madrid defender is only 28 years old, meaning he could hold the captaincy for years to come. Moreover, he’s arguably the most vocal leader on the pitch and already has experience under his belt as captain at Tottenham. If he could lead a locker room filled with players from across the world, he should have no trouble communicating with and commanding his fellow countrymen.

Still, there are also other candidates who could make sense. Even if Romero is named the main captain, others could fill in for him in games in which the center back is unavailable.

Post-Messi Era: Argentina’s captain candidates

Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez is a fan favorite and a leader both on and off the pitch. His heroics for Argentina speak for themselves, and he has all the ingredients to be an elite captain for La Albiceleste. However, it’s hard to look past the fact that he plays goalkeeper, and having your captain so far away from the action and the referee isn’t exactly ideal. Especially with a powerhouse like Argentina, whose players are vocal and in the referee’s ear every game, whether it’s the World Cup final or an international friendly.

Rodrigo De Paul is the other obvious choice to become Argentina’s captain. He is as loquacious as they come and has spent a long time alongside Messi, perhaps perfecting his leadership skills. However, with De Paul’s performance during the 2026 World Cup facing backlash and his starting role being called into question, it may not be wise to name as captain someone who may often start games on the bench.

Dark horses

Although Lautaro Martinez captains his club, Inter, and Julian Alvarez is arguably the best player on the team, neither appears to be what Argentina are looking for in their next captain. Moreover, because the two often split starts, their captaincy bids may be obsolete.

Enzo Fernandez may not be getting the recognition he deserves in the race for the armband. He has all the ingredients of an Argentine leader, playing with his heart on his sleeve and boiling blood, and he already has experience under his belt, having occasionally served as captain at Chelsea. Plus, he’s only 25, so he has a lot more to give for his country.

Lisandro Martinez could very well be a candidate. However, it’s more likely Argentina would split the captaincy between their two starting center backs if that were the case. The Romero-Martinez duo will be crucial to La Albiceleste’s success in the post-Messi days, and there may be no better motivation than having them both serve as captains, 1A and 1B.

Romero could still be best option

Romero might still be the most logical answer to the captain question. He was Argentina’s best player not named Lionel Andres Messi throughout the 2026 World Cup and is entering his prime both at the club and international levels.

However, because Romero isn’t unfamiliar with yellow and red cards, Argentina must have a backup plan and an alternative captain lined up as well. And as we’ve seen, there is no shortage of candidates.

These statistics could change, as Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to continue playing for Portugal. Two legends who have given 100% for their countries, and the end of an era that appears to be drawing near.

The reasons behind Messi’s decision

The latest defeat in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain was a major blow for Messi, who was later revealed to have played in the tournament while his father was in poor health. Following Jorge’s passing, the No. 10 felt that it was time to bring his career with La Albiceleste to an end, closing out a career filled with remarkable achievements.

That August 17, 2005, will forever be remembered in history as the date when Lionel Messi made his official debut for the Argentina national team. Twenty-one years later, his legacy will live on forever in the eyes of fans of this sport.

Ronaldo still wants more with Portugal

Although after Portugal’s 2026 World Cup exit Ronaldo said that it would be his final appearance in the tournament, he hasn’t retired from international duty yet. Therefore, CR7 is expected to join his teammates during the next FIFA international break.

It includes six matches, all of them corresponding to the UEFA Nations League. These are the final games the Portuguese national team will play in 2026:

• vs Wales, September 24
• at Norway, September 27
• at Denmark, October 1
• vs Norway, October 4
• vs Denmark, November 14
• at Wales, November 17

While Ronaldo confirmed that the 2030 World Cup was his last, he hasn’t retired from international duty yet. At 41, CR7 plans to continue representing his country in the upcoming international windows.

Ronaldo recently revealed this might be his final season playing professional soccer though, so his time with Portugal might be coming to an end as well. But unlike Messi, Ronaldo’s international career isn’t over yet.

Messi and Ronaldo’s international numbers

Both Messi and Ronaldo have left their mark on the international stage. While the Barcelona product is stepping away from Argentina with 207 caps and 125 goals to his name, the former Real Madrid star boasts 146 goals in 233 appearances for Portugal.

We’re talking about the only players in FIFA World Cup history to play in six different editions of the competition. Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo “Memo” Ocha was also called up to six World Cups but, unlike Messi and Ronaldo, didn’t log minutes in each of those tournaments.

Messi and Ronaldo’s international trophies

While Ronaldo enjoyed international silverware before Messi by winning the 2016 UEFA Euro with Portugal, the Argentine star ended up surpassing CR7’s international titles.

Ronaldo added the 2019 and 2025 editions of the UEFA Nations League to his trophy cabinet, but Messi won the big one by leading Argentina to World Cup glory at Qatar 2022, apart from celebrating back-to-back Copa America triumphs (2021 and 2024), as well as the 2022 Finalissima. Additionally, Messi celebrated an Olympic gold medal in Beijing 2008 and the U-20 World Cup title in 2005.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami contract expires at the end of 2028. Hence, it will remain to be seen if he renews his contract and keeps playing, or if he decides to hang his boots for good, and step into a new chapter of his life. Messi explained his decision to retire from Argentina in a heartfelt way.

The fact is that Messi has accomplished every single thing a soccer player would want. He has established himself as arguably the best player of all time and there are little to no accolades that he hasn’t conquered yet. Lionel Messi retiring from Argentina also raises the question of how long will Cristiano Ronaldo keep playing for Portugal.

Messi’s numbers in Argentina vs Inter Miami

Of course, raw numbers will tell that Messi’s stats with Argentina are way higher. He has more games and played for the national team throughout his career. But, what about the averages? Has Messi kept his tallies in check with Inter Miami compared to the ‘Albiceleste‘?

Messi averaged 0.89 G/A per match with Argentina. That equals 125 goals and 68 assists in 207 games. With Inter Miami, Messi’s averages are even better. Despite going to the team at an older age, Messi has 98 goals and 54 assists in 111 games, for an average of 1.36 G/A per match with Inter Miami.

Messi’s legacy is unparalleled in both Argentina and Inter Miami

Messi won two Copa Americas and the 2022 World Cup, and also guided Argentina to two additional World Cup finals (2014, 2026), and two Copa Americas finals (2015, 2016). That is a legacy that is not likely to be equaled. Argentina is one of the best soccer national teams in history, and Messi has a big responsibility in that statement. With him, Argentina was always a contender.

As for Inter Miami, the club has less than 10 years of existence, but Messi is already its best player ever. His output is excellent and age seems not to be an issue for him in the MLS.