Lionel Messi has joined the Argentina squad ahead of what is expected to be his final international appearance on home soil, bringing an emotional chapter of his remarkable career closer to an end. The 39-year-old forward arrived at Argentina’s Ezeiza training base and took part in a team session.
Argentina will face Benin at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental on October 6, with around 85,000 supporters expected to witness the special occasion. The match has been planned as a farewell for Messi, who has become one of the most celebrated players in the country’s football history.
A Historic Argentina Career
Messi enters the farewell with 125 international goals in 207 appearances for Argentina. His biggest achievements with the national team include the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles and the Finalissima.
His relationship with Argentine fans was not always easy. Messi faced heavy criticism during the early part of his international career, but his persistence and eventual success transformed him into a national icon.
World Cup Teammates Set to Join
Several of Messi’s long-time teammates, including Rodrigo De Paul, Giovani Lo Celso and Nicolas Otamendi, are expected to be part of the occasion. Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina, however, will miss the farewell after their club did not release them for the event.
The Argentine Football Association has described the match as the farewell Messi deserves, making the evening more than just another international friendly.
What Comes Next for Messi?
After the Argentina appearance, Messi will return to Inter Miami, where he remains under contract through the 2028 MLS season. For Argentina, the farewell also represents a symbolic transition as coach Lionel Scaloni prepares to build the next generation of the national team.
For millions of Argentine fans, however, the October 6 match will primarily be a chance to celebrate the player who finally delivered the World Cup and helped create one of the greatest eras in the country’s football history.