Linas Montlhery Overview

Tango coach: it will be difficult to replace Messi the captain

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.

Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes has addressed mounting speculation surrounding his international future while serving a lengthy ten-match FIFA suspension. With legendary captain Lionel Messi preparing for his emotional national team farewell, the former Roma star insisted he remains committed to the world champions despite missing the current camp.

Angel Di Maria has offered his full backing to Cristian Romero after the commanding centre-back was named the next permanent captain of Argentina. The milestone decision comes as talisman Lionel Messi prepares to bring down the curtain on his legendary international career on October 6, triggering a new leadership chapter under Lionel Scaloni.