Argentine league to pause games this weekend to honour Messi after his retirement

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced that all matches in its men's and women's competitions on the upcoming matchday will pause in the 10th minute to honor Lionel Messi. The one-minute break will conclude with a round of applause to celebrate Messi's distinguished career with the Argentina national team. The AFA emphasized that this tribute acknowledges Messi's legacy and his invaluable contributions to the national team throughout his tenure.

According to ESPN, "Every game will stop in the 10th minute for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi’s career with the Argentina national team," affirmed the Argentina FA. The choice of the 10th minute is a symbolic nod to Messi's iconic No. 10 shirt, which he has worn during his international career. Previously, Enzo Fernández became the third non-Italian to win the Serie A Coach of the Year award with Como.

The tribute will be observed in both men's and women's competitions, providing Argentine fans with an opportunity to unite in celebrating Messi's remarkable achievements. Messi has enjoyed a prolific international career with Argentina, securing major accolades and cementing his status as one of the greatest players in the country's football history.

The minute-long applause is anticipated to create a memorable moment inside stadiums nationwide, as Argentine football collectively pays tribute to the career and legacy of its legendary No. 10. Notably, there have been reports suggesting that Messi may be retiring from the Argentina national team, declaring that he has "nothing more to give" after a two-decade-long international career.

Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers, boasting a decade of experience covering business and economic affairs. His work encompasses markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria's broader economic landscape, always striving for accuracy and responsible journalism.