"No Expiration Date": Angel Di Maria begs Lionel Messi to scrap international retirement plans

Following a grueling World Cup 2026 campaign, Angel Di Maria has publicly urged Lionel Messi to extend his legendary international football career.

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No expiration date for the captain

Speaking to the press after Rosario Central suffered a narrow 2-1 league defeat to Belgrano, Di Maria made his feelings clear regarding his lifelong teammate. Even as Messi approaches his 40th birthday, the former Paris Saint Germain & Real Madrid attacker insists the Inter Miami forward remains in a league of his own.

Di Maria stated that Messi should continue wearing the armband as long as he finds joy on the pitch noting that the veteran still has plenty to offer the national setup.

These strong comments arrive during a tense period for fans, especially after midfielder Leandro Paredes recently hinted that the tournament finale was likely Messi's final international appearance.

The architect must remain

Beyond the captaincy, Di Maria was equally vocal about the managerial dugout. He passionately advocated for Lionel Scaloni to stay in his role as head coach. Scaloni is responsible for delivering a golden era, capturing four massive trophies during his tenure.

Di Maria firmly believes Scaloni is the essential bridge connecting the established veterans with the fresh wave of youth academy talents currently breaking into the senior squad. While acknowledging the final decision rests with the manager, Di Maria emphasized that the entire dressing room wants Scaloni to continue his project.

Echoes of the 2016 exodus

Di Maria’s public plea for Messi to stay perfectly mirrors the chaotic aftermath of the 2016 Copa America Centenario. Following a devastating penalty shootout loss to Chile in that final, a broken Messi shockingly announced his immediate retirement from international football.

That spontaneous decision triggered a massive nationwide campaign, with fans, politicians and teammates begging him to reconsider.

Messi eventually reversed his decision just two months later.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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