Argentina: Lionel Scaloni has chosen Messi’s successor as captain

The Atlético defender is set to take over the armband after Messi’s farewell to La Albiceleste

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Argentina: Lionel Scaloni has chosen Messi’s successor as captain

Cristian Romero is expected to become Argentina’s new captain after Lionel Messi, who is set to make one final appearance against Benin.

A historic chapter is about to close for Argentina. Following the announcement of Lionel Messi’s international retirement, Lionel Scaloni’s staff are already preparing the new hierarchy within La Albiceleste. According to several Argentine media outlets, including TyC Sports, Cristian “Cuti” Romero is set to take over as captain.

The 28-year-old defender has been one of the squad’s senior figures for several years. Established at the heart of Argentina’s defence, he already has 58 caps and has played a part in the national team’s recent major successes: the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles, the 2022 Finalissima and the 2022 World Cup. The Argentine press had already announced his appointment as Messi’s successor at the beginning of September.

Romero, the new leader of the post-Messi era

Romero had already worn the armband on several occasions when Messi was absent. His status has grown further in recent years, making him one of Scaloni’s main on-field leaders. The defender also joined Atlético de Madrid this summer, signing a contract until 2031 after five seasons at Tottenham.

However, the transition will not be fully effective from the outset of the final match of this international break. Messi is due to reclaim the armband on 6 October for his farewell appearance against Benin at the Monumental. The match was specifically arranged by the AFA to allow the number 10 to greet the Argentine public one last time. His final appearance with La Albiceleste was confirmed in mid-September.

Messi to appear only for his farewell against Benin

The AFA clarified that Messi will not take part in the first two matches of this international window. At 39, he will join the squad only for the final fixture against Benin. His international career will therefore come to an end after more than 20 years in the Albiceleste shirt, with 207 caps and 125 goals.

Argentina’s full schedule during the international break

Argentina will play three friendly matches at home during this FIFA window:

30 September: Argentina - Bolivia, at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Córdoba.
3 October: Argentina - Burkina Faso, at the Monumental in Buenos Aires.
6 October: Argentina - Benin, at the Monumental in Buenos Aires.

Romero should therefore wear the armband in the first two fixtures of the break before handing it back to Messi one last time for his farewell evening. From the next squad gathering onwards, Argentina will fully enter a new era, with the Atlético defender as the new face of Albiceleste leadership.