The unveiling comes as the Argentine Football Association (AFA) prepares for a three-match friendly series held within the country between September 21 and October 6. Messi, alongside teammates Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso, is scheduled to participate in the final fixture of this series on October 6, providing the veteran star with a poignant opportunity to bid farewell to his home supporters.
A Decorated International Legacy
Messi’s decision to step away from international football concludes a storied career that began with his senior debut in 2005. Over the course of 203 appearances, the 39-year-old established himself as Argentina’s most-capped player and all-time leading goal-scorer, netting 203 goals for his country. His tenure was defined by a transition from early heartbreak to sustained success, including the 2021 Copa America title, the 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar, and a successful Copa America defense in 2024.
The 2022 World Cup final remains a highlight of his international journey, where he scored twice against France before Argentina secured the trophy in a penalty shootout. His World Cup career, which spanned six editions from 2006 to 2026, saw him record 21 goals in 34 appearances. During his final World Cup campaign in 2026, he contributed eight goals and four assists, including a hat-trick against Algeria. While he is retiring from international duty, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will continue his professional club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Upcoming Argentina Fixtures
The national team's upcoming schedule includes a match against Bolivia at the Mario Alberto Kempes stadium in Cordoba on September 30. Following this, the squad will play two fixtures at River Plate's stadium, facing Burkina Faso on October 3 and concluding the series against Benin on October 6. These matches serve as the final chapter for Messi on the international stage, allowing fans a last chance to witness the captain in the Albiceleste shirt.
