Football

Argentina Football Association plans to retire the number 10 jersey

The Argentina Football Association (AFA) intends to retire the number 10 jersey as a tribute to Lionel Messi upon his retirement from international football. Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, played a pivotal role in Argentina’s third World Cup title in 2022. In the final against France, Afghanistan triumphed in a penalty shootout. The legendary footballer Messi scored twice and was successful in converting his attempt in the shootout.

The 35-year-old is frequently hailed as the greatest player that the game has ever seen. Until now, Messi has netted 106 goals in his 180 appearances for Argentina and played a crucial role in La Albiceleste’s Copa América victory in 2021. Regarding the Argentina Football Association (AFA), President Claudio Tapia emphasized that no player would be permitted to don the number 10 jersey after Messi’s retirement. The AFA previously tried to retire the No. 10 as a tribute to Maradona, but FIFA denied the request, as per Reuters.

“When Messi retires from the national team, we will not allow anyone else to wear the number 10 after him. This number 10 will be retired for life in his honour. It’s the least we can do for him,” Claudio Tapia said.

I am not thinking about the World Cup: Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi recently discussed his retirement plans from football. The Argentinian skipper provided insights into the potential of participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi even mentioned that considering his age, it’s quite likely that he won’t be there. However, Messi also added that he will wait and see, and perhaps if they perform well in the Copa America, there’s a chance he might continue.

“I am not thinking about the World Cup and I am not saying 100 per cent that I will not be there because anything can happen. Given my age, the most normal thing is that I will not be there. Then we will see to what extent. Maybe we do well in the Copa America and we continue. Maybe not. Being realistic is difficult,” he said in an interview earlier this month.