After Messi’s farewell, what is next for Argentina’s national team?
BUENOS AIRES (AP) — What now for Argentina? Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the national team on Monday after a 21-year career, leaving behind a legacy of 125 goals and the 2022 World Cup title. As captain and talisman,…
As Lionel Messi bids farewell to the Argentina national team after a remarkable 21-year career, questions arise about the future of the famous football nation. Messi, a 39-year-old captain and talisman, announced his retirement on Monday, citing his desire to pass the torch to younger players. With 125 goals and six World Cup appearances under his belt, Messi holds several records in the tournament history.
His team reached the World Cup final just six weeks prior, leaving fans and teammates emotionally distressed at the prospect of playing without him. Teammate Enzo Fernández, who debuted just months before the Qatar World Cup, expressed his sorrow at not seeing Messi on the pitch again. The need for a successor to Messi's legacy arises, similar to the uncertainty that followed Diego Maradona's departure after his 1994 World Cup performance.
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