Argentina witnessed the end of an era Tuesday night as Lionel Messi played his final international match, helping his country defeat Benin 3–0 at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental on October 6. The captain delivered one last memorable performance: two assists and a goal from the penalty spot.

The stadium became a celebration of everything Messi has meant to Argentine football. A giant number 10 jersey covered the centre of the pitch before kickoff, and play stopped in the 10th minute for a standing ovation. After the final whistle, a drone show lit up the sky as supporters chanted his name.

Messi leaves Argentina with 208 appearances and 126 goals, having led his country to the 2022 World Cup title, two Copa América championships and the 2022 Finalissima. For a generation of fans, watching Argentina has meant watching Messi. Now comes the difficult task of imagining the team without him.

Who Will Wear Argentina’s Number 10?

No successor has been officially confirmed in the reporting available as of October 7. Coach Lionel Scaloni has said the number will pass to another player, but he reserved it for Messi’s farewell before making that decision.

Nico Paz is one of the leading candidates. The Como playmaker even scored from a Messi assist during the farewell match — a fitting moment for a player being discussed as part of Argentina’s future. Lautaro Martínez is another name in the conversation, while Franco Mastantuono and Thiago Almada have also been mentioned as possibilities.

The captaincy has a clearer answer: Cristian “Cuti” Romero will inherit the armband. Whoever eventually receives the number 10 will take on a shirt with extraordinary history — and the chance to write their own chapter.

Gracias, Leo. 🇦🇷