The president of Argentina’s Football Association has revealed that Lionel Messi’s iconic No 10 jersey will be permanently retired when he decides to retire from the game. Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players in history, achieved a remarkable milestone in his career last year by helping Argentina win the World Cup after a 35-year wait. With a total of 106 goals in his 180 caps, he has solidified his position as a legendary figure in Argentinian football, alongside the likes of Diego Maradona. As Messi, now 36 years old, enters the twilight of his career, his country is already making plans to pay tribute to their World Cup-winning captain by forever retiring his beloved No 10 jersey. AFA President Claudio Tapia stated, “When Messi decides to retire from international football, we will ensure that no other player wears the number 10 jersey in his honor.”
Lionel Messi will have the honor of his No 10 Argentina jersey being retired permanently when he decides to retire from the game.
Last year, Messi added the perfect final touch to his legendary journey as he played a vital role in Argentina’s long-awaited triumph in the World Cup held in Qatar, putting an end to their 35-year wait.
The president of the country’s Football Association has officially announced that no player will be given the iconic number 10 jersey after Lionel Messi, as a tribute to his incredible career. The decision was made to honor him and his contributions to the sport.
Messi’s journey with the Argentine national team began when he made his debut at the age of 18 in 2005. However, his first cap turned into a nightmare as he was sent off just two minutes into the game. Despite this setback, he went on to achieve great success, including winning an Olympic gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Games.
Although Messi had been enjoying immense success with Barcelona, his international career had not seen the same level of triumph until 2021. It was in that year that he led Argentina to victory in the Copa America, marking their first major title since 1993. He then added another milestone to his resume by winning the World Cup 18 months later.
Currently, Messi, who recently joined the MLS team Miami, is preparing for his first full season with the club. Despite nearing his 37th birthday, he continues to serve as the captain of the Argentine national team.
In his debut season with Miami, Messi had an impressive start, scoring 11 goals in 14 games and helping the team secure their first Leagues Cup victory. In the upcoming season, he will be reunited with his former Barcelona teammate and close friend, Luis Suarez, who recently joined Miami from Brazilian team Gremio. The duo had experienced great success together at Barcelona, particularly in the 2014-15 season when they formed a deadly attacking partnership with Neymar and claimed a historic treble.