Argentina players urge coach Lionel Scaloni to stay amid contract talks

The prospect of Lionel Messi's departure from the Argentina national team has prompted a candid statement from his potential replacement, Franco Mastantuono. The Fiorentina forward has expressed his sorrow at the prospect of playing without his idol, describing it as a difficult experience. This will mark Argentina's first time without Messi since 2005, with Mastantuono set to fill the void left by the forward.

The 19-year-old is viewed as one of the promising talents poised to shape Argentina's future. Mastantuono recognized that the forthcoming international break will be emotionally charged as the national team prepares to honor their captain. He acknowledged the immense difficulty that lies ahead for everyone, given Messi's status as a national idol, not just in football.

Despite this, Mastantuono emphasized the necessity of moving forward for Argentina and for Messi himself. The current Fiorentina player, Mastantuono plays in the same position as Messi and aims to secure a spot in Lionel Scaloni's squad post-Messi's exit. Argentina's next fixture is an international friendly against Bolivia, scheduled for September 30, 2026.