Lionel Messi has returned to Argentine soil as he prepares to say a final, emotional goodbye to the national team. The legendary number 10 landed in Rosario via private jet on Friday morning, marking the beginning of the end for one of the most storied international careers in the history of the beautiful game.
Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes made a surprise appearance at Argentina's training camp in Ezeiza despite currently serving a lengthy 10-match FIFA suspension. The 32-year-old veteran visited Lionel Scaloni's squad on Tuesday to offer support ahead of upcoming friendlies, demonstrating his continued commitment to the national team setup.
Roma attacker Matias Soule has returned to international duty with Argentina after briefly stepping away from camp to attend the birth of his first child. The 23-year-old winger was granted compassionate leave from Ezeiza to welcome his newborn son Bautista alongside partner Milagros Sosa before resuming preparations under Lionel Scaloni.
AS Roma have taken the controversial decision to block Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina from travelling to Argentina to attend Lionel Messi’s international farewell. Despite the magnitude of the event in Buenos Aires, the Giallorossi have prioritised their domestic commitments over the emotional celebration of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
The Argentine Football Association has announced a poignant tribute to Lionel Messi by leaving his iconic No. 10 jersey vacant for their upcoming international fixtures. The legendary forward is set to pull on the famous shirt one last time in a specially arranged farewell match against Benin at the Estadio Monumental this October.