Lionel Messi has been named in Argentinaโs squad for upcoming international friendlies, offering fans a chance to witness his farewell performance after announcing retirement from international football.
Legendary footballer Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies, providing a chance to deliver a farewell performance in front of fans after officially announcing his retirement from international football.
Messi had announced his retirement from the international scene just a few days after his father, Jorge, passed away. The forward is coming off a strong campaign, but Argentina lost to Spain 1-0 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey.
Messi to be in action against Benin
Head coach Lionel Scaloni has called up Messi for Argentina’s upcoming three international friendlies at home. La Albiceleste will face Bolivia on September 30 at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes and then face Burkina Faso on October 3 and Benin on October 6.
The remaining two matches will take place at Estadio Mรขs Monumental, Argentina’s and South America’s largest stadium, which can accommodate 85,000 spectators. Messi will attend the last friendly alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso.
Messi will have the chance to bid farewell to international football on home soil, giving Argentine fans one final opportunity.
“We made the decision to invite the best player in the world, the symbol of our national team, our captain, Lionel Andres Messi, so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves on October 6 here in Argentina,” Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia said.
More from Football NewsMessi leaves behind a career to remember
Messi announced that he is bringing down the curtain on a two-decade international career in early September, becoming the country’s all-time leading goalscorer. He also guided Argentina to three major international title wins — the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and the Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024.
La Pulga’s World Cup career spanned from 2006 to 2026, scoring 21 goals in 34 appearances to become the second-highest goalscorer of all time. In the 2026 World Cup, he delivered a performance to remember after scoring eight goals and four assists, including his first-ever World Cup hat-trick against Algeria.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner would continue his club football career with MLS side Inter Miami CF.