Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina’s squad for the upcoming international window, opening the door for one final appearance with the national team following his recent retirement from international football.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni has called up Messi as part of Argentina’s squad for three upcoming friendlies against Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin. The most significant date is October 6, when Argentina are scheduled to face Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on August 31, bringing an end to an international career that spanned more than two decades. However, his inclusion in Scaloni’s latest squad means the 39-year-old could now return to the Albiceleste for what is expected to be a farewell appearance in front of the home supporters.
The October 6 fixture against Benin is particularly significant, with the Monumental set to provide the stage for Messi’s potential final appearance in an Argentina shirt. The national team will also face Bolivia in Córdoba on September 30 before meeting Burkina Faso at the Monumental on October 3.
Messi’s selection comes only weeks after he confirmed his decision to retire from international football. His return for the upcoming friendlies therefore appears to be designed not as a reversal of that decision, but as an opportunity for the Argentina captain to receive a final farewell from the supporters.
The AFA has also confirmed the return of other key figures, with Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso included alongside Messi. The remainder of the squad is expected to combine Argentina’s established core with players being introduced for the next international cycle.
For Argentina supporters, however, the focus will inevitably be on October 6. If Messi takes the field against Benin at the Monumental, it could mark the final chapter of his extraordinary international career.
