The Argentine national team has been plunged into a state of absolute uncertainty as a series of off-field scandals and internal disputes threaten to derail the squad. Reports from Italy suggest that a combination of legal battles involving federation leadership and simmering resentment over unpaid bonuses has created a toxic atmosphere ahead of the upcoming international break.
Lionel Messi has retired from international football with Argentina, but will he head in a similar direction at club level? The South American GOAT is tied to a contract at Inter Miami through 2028 and former MLS star Shaka Hislop has told GOAL why the evergreen 39-year-old is likely to honour that agreement before taking on a future ambassadorial role.
Argentina have scrapped plans for an Asian tour following Lionel Messi's international retirement, opting instead to stage a three-match homecoming series during the autumn international break. Lionel Scaloni's side are preparing to return to domestic soil between September 21 and October 6 following their 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced an unprecedented nationwide tribute to honor Lionel Messi following his emotional retirement from international football. Every domestic match across the country will come to a synchronised pause this weekend to celebrate the legacy of the greatest player to ever wear the Albiceleste shirt.
FC Orenburg
