The sacred number remains untouchable! Scaloni makes historic decision over Messi's shirt
Argentina national team head coach Lionel Scaloni has decided to temporarily retire the iconic No. 10 shirt belonging to Lionel Messi during the upcoming international break.
Details: According to the respected Argentine outlet TyC Sports, no Albiceleste player will take the field wearing the famous number in the team's official fixtures in November. The World Cup-winning coach has yet to decide who should inherit the iconic shirt and has opted to keep the number frozen, seeking to shield his players from the immense psychological burden that comes with such responsibility.
The decision highlights the profound respect held by the coaching staff and the federation's leadership for the greatness of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. The coaching staff believes that the No. 10 shirt carries a unique historical status in the Argentina national team, sanctified by the great eras of Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. As a result, the question of passing on that legacy must be allowed to develop naturally.
It is worth noting that Lionel Messi holds the records for most appearances and goals for Argentina, etching his name into football immortality with triumphs at the World Cup in Qatar, the Finalissima and two Copa América tournaments.
Reminder: A legend's homecoming? Lionel Messi could wear his boyhood club's shirt 25 years later
Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert