Overview
- Lionel Messi has been included only for Argentina’s friendly against Benin on Oct. 6, 2026, at the Estadio Monumental where he will make his final international appearance.
- Messi previewed a special Adidas commemorative jersey on social media with gold 'MESSI 10' detailing and the AFA has confirmed the kit will be worn for the farewell.
- The Argentine Football Association invited the entire 2022 World Cup–winning squad and their families to attend as part of an official tribute organized by president Claudio Tapia.
- Ticketing tiers and stadium preparations are being publicized for a near-capacity crowd, while Messi will not play in Argentina’s earlier friendlies against Bolivia or Burkina Faso.
- Team leaders say the farewell will double as the opening moment of a squad transition that will force coach Lionel Scaloni to rebuild Argentina’s leadership and attacking plan after Messi leaves international football.