Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has officially confirmed that Cristian Romero will inherit the captain's armband once Lionel Messi brings his legendary international career to a close. The announcement marks a significant shift for the world champions as they prepare for a future without their greatest ever player following his upcoming farewell match.
Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez took time out during international duty to return to his former side Racing Club ahead of their derby clash. The striker, who was warmly greeted by club president Diego Milito, subsequently spoke about the national team's looming transitional phase as Lionel Messi approaches his final farewell match against Benin.
Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi will play his final match for Argentina in a friendly against Benin on October 6. The 39-year-old forward announced his international retirement in August, and his manager is determined to ensure he receives a fitting tribute from his adoring supporters.
The Madrid derby is rarely a quiet affair, but the latest installment saw a long-standing international rivalry boiled over onto the La Liga stage. Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham and Atletico Madrid defender Cristian Romero were involved in a series of heated exchanges as Los Blancos fell to a 2-1 defeat at the Metropolitano.
Emiliano Martinez has reported for international duty determined to give Lionel Messi an unforgettable Argentina farewell at Estadio Monumental despite lingering World Cup final heartbreak. The goalkeeper admitted the narrow defeat against Spain remains an enduring sting, yet insisted the squad will rally to ensure their captain departs with a celebratory occasion.
Lisandro Martinez has arrived in Buenos Aires determined to celebrate Lionel Messi's international farewell despite the lingering heartbreak of Argentina's World Cup final loss to Spain. The Manchester United defender urged his team-mates to look forward and embrace the home tribute at Estadio Monumental following a gruelling tournament campaign.
Lionel Messi will pull on the famous blue-and-white stripes one last time as Argentina host Benin in an emotional farewell match at the Monumental. The 39-year-old forward has confirmed a special jersey will be worn for his international swansong, officially closing a historic, trophy-laden chapter.
Franco Mastantuono has admitted that the upcoming international break will be an emotional period for the Argentina national team as they prepare to say goodbye to Lionel Messi. The 19-year-old talent, who is currently rediscovering his best form in Serie A, described the legendary number 10 as a national hero whose absence will be deeply felt by the entire country.
Alexis Mac Allister has thrown his weight behind Lionel Messi to add yet another Ballon d'Or to his record-breaking trophy cabinet. While the Liverpool midfielder prepares for a new era with Argentina, he insists that the Inter Miami superstar remains the standard-bearer for world football despite his advancing years.
Cristian Romero has thrown his weight behind Lionel Messi to add another Ballon d'Or to his record-breaking collection, insisting his compatriot remains the best player on the planet. The defender also aimed a dig at the award's selection process, suggesting that commercial appeal often outweighs sporting merit in the modern game.
Lionel Messi has shared an emotional message ahead of his final match for Argentina, as the national team prepare to host Benin for his official farewell. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will take to the pitch for his country one last time in October wearing a special kit, giving fans a final opportunity to celebrate his historic international career and World Cup triumph.
Inter Miami showed why they might still be OK, Mauricio Pochettino's teenaged USMNT call-ups shine, but LAFC continue to frustrate in a compelling week of MLS
Lionel Messi continued his phenomenal scoring run with a trademark free-kick, but Inter Miami were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against San Diego FC. New manager Kily Gonzalez was left frustrated by his team's defensive errors as the Herons missed the chance to climb up the Eastern Conference table.
Alex Baena has heaped incredible praise on Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal, claiming the teenager is now the primary reason he tunes in to watch the Catalan giants. Atletico Madrid midfielder compared the youngster's impact to that of Lionel Messi, suggesting that Yamal has reached a level of individual brilliance that sets him apart from every other professional in the game.