Official! Will Messi play for Argentina again?
Messi's goodbye with Argentina is getting one final chapter.
Details: Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina's squad for the upcoming international window, opening the door to one more appearance after the legendary forward announced his retirement from international football at the end of August. The plan is for the 39-year-old to receive a proper farewell with the national team on October 6, when Lionel Scaloni's side face Benin.
The friendly against Benin has already been confirmed for October 6 in Buenos Aires, with the match set to take place at the Monumental. It is expected to become a special evening for Argentine supporters, who will have another opportunity to see their long-time captain with the national team.
Messi announced the end of his international career on August 31, shortly after Argentina finished as runners-up at the 2026 World Cup. He had made it clear that a major chapter of his career was over, but his inclusion in the squad means his final appearance in an Argentina shirt may now come on home soil. If he takes the field against Benin, it will be his first national-team appearance since announcing his retirement.
It is worth noting that Messi leaves behind an extraordinary international legacy. With Argentina, he won the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles, the 2022 Finalissima and the 2022 World Cup. The Argentine Football Association also recognizes him as the national team's all-time leader in both appearances and goals.
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Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
