Lionel Messi‘s historic era with the Argentina national team has reached its conclusion, leaving head coach Lionel Scaloni tasked with launching a new cycle without the iconic No. 10 in the picture. However, as official scheduling for the September and October international windows takes shape, reports indicate Messi has been included on Scaloni‘s preliminary roster.
While speculation previously persisted regarding Messi extending his international career through the 2028 Copa America, his formal retirement announcement put an end to those rumors. Yet while the legendary playmaker remains firm in his decision, it appears the 2026 World Cup final defeat to Spain will not serve as his final appearance in an Albiceleste shirt.
According to ESPN Argentina insider Federico Bueno, Messi features on Lionel Scaloni’s squad submission for the upcoming international window. While the official roster release remains pending, local reporting expects the former captain to be named among the 26-player contingent.
The objective centers on providing Messi a proper farewell match on domestic soil, allowing Argentina supporters the opportunity to honor the icon following a run that yielded three World Cup final appearances across four tournament cycles.
Following weeks of negotiations with potential opponents, federation officials have been seeking confirmation from FIFA regarding Tier 1 “Class A” status for the fixtures. With the extended window opening September 21 and Scaloni finalizing his selections, insider reports indicate the roster submitted to federation executives includes Messi’s name.
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Argentina’s friendlies officially confirmed
In an official statement released Tuesday, September 15, the Argentine Football Association confirmed three friendly fixtures for the upcoming expanded autumn window. However, questions remain regarding whether Messi will participate across all three matches, make a single appearance, or feature briefly at each venue.
AFA confirmed the national team will face Bolivia on Wednesday, September 30, at Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Cordoba. The Albiceleste will then return to Buenos Aires for fixtures against Burkina Faso on Saturday, October 3, and Benin on Tuesday, October 6, with both matches hosted at Estadio Monumental.
The venue selection reflects a strategic approach to accommodate massive domestic demand should Messi participate. Cordoba’s Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium offers a 57,000-seat capacity for supporters outside the capital, while River Plate’s Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires accommodates 85,018 fans as the largest stadium in South America.
