Lionel Messi is poised to make a stunning and emotional return to Argentina just months after bidding farewell to the international stage. Inter Miami are reportedly finalising plans for a high-profile preseason friendly that would see the legendary forward step back onto the pitch where he played his final game for the 2022 World Cup winners.
Argentina will take their fight against FIFA's World Cup final sanctions to the Court of Arbitration for Sport after the governing body's appeals committee upheld Leandro Paredes' 10-match ban and a $321,000 fine on the national federation. Nahuel Molina did see his suspension reduced, but the federation insist they have the arguments to overturn the remaining punishments.
Argentina and Roma defender Nahuel Molina has received a significant boost after FIFA agreed to reduce his lengthy international suspension. The ban was originally issued following the chaotic scenes that marred the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup final earlier this summer, which Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in extra time.
Argentina will enter their upcoming international fixtures against Uruguay and Costa Rica with a notable omission from the team sheet. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has opted to keep the legendary No.10 jersey vacant for the duration of the November window. The decision underscores the monumental impact of Lionel Messi, whose international retirement has left a void that the coaching staff is not yet ready to fill.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has officially ushered in a new chapter by naming his first squad since the retirement of legendary captain Lionel Messi. The Albiceleste are preparing for their final friendly matches of the year against Uruguay and Costa Rica, marking the start of a journey without their greatest-ever icon.
Chelsea and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez believes his nation would defeat Spain if they replayed their recent World Cup final today. Despite praising the Spanish players, the veteran shot-stopper remains confident that Lionel Scaloni's squad are currently the superior side following their extra-time heartbreak.