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.
Roma forward Paulo Dybala is caught in a club versus country dilemma after manager Gian Piero Gasperini blocked his travel to Lionel Messi's international farewell in Buenos Aires. Despite receiving an official invitation alongside fellow 2022 World Cup winners, the playmaker risks disrupting vital club preparations ahead of a crucial domestic fixture.
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.
Following his retirement, the question recently arose as to who would take over the captaincy and Lionel Messi’s No. 10 shirt in the Argentina national team. While the captaincy issue has now been settled, a favourite to inherit the squad number is also emerging.
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.
