Has Lionel Messi’s chapter with Argentina ended with the World Cup final? Superficially, the answer is ‘yes’. But now, a new possibility is being discussed in Argentine football. Despite his announcement of retirement from the national team, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is considering having the captain play once more on home soil. However, this match would not be competitive; it would be a special farewell event to honor Messi.
Even after Messi’s announcement of retirement from international football, new curiosity has arisen regarding his final match. Argentina has begun discussions about planning a special match at home to bid farewell to their long-serving captain.
However, the entire matter is still in its preliminary stages. The most crucial question is whether Messi himself is interested in playing such a match. The AFA can only make a final decision about the event after receiving his consent.
According to a report by the Times of India, Argentina might play two or three friendly matches during the FIFA international break from September 21 to October 6. Within that schedule, a special farewell match for Messi is being considered. Some reports have also mentioned the possibility of four matches.
As of now, no opponent, date, or venue has been determined. Pablo Gravellone, a journalist for the Argentine media outlet Todo Noticias, claims that the current situation suggests Messi’s final international match could take place on home soil.
The Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires is the most discussed potential venue. Argentina regularly plays its home matches there. There is also a possibility of hosting the match in Messi’s hometown of Rosario, though this is considered less likely.
The event for Messi would be held in a completely different atmosphere, outside of competitive football. Its purpose would not be to bring him back for a new tournament, but rather to officially mark the end of his international career in front of the fans.
This is because Messi announced his decision to step down from international football after the loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The Argentine star revealed his decision in a lengthy social media post on August 31.
Messi has scored 125 goals in 207 matches for Argentina. His list of achievements for the national team includes six major trophies, with the 2022 World Cup victory being his greatest success. However, the ending of such a long and illustrious international career with a World Cup final loss made his farewell somewhat poignant for fans.
For this reason, the plan to see Messi in an Argentina jersey once more in front of his home fans is gaining special importance. If such a match takes place, Messi will have the opportunity to step onto the field wearing the national team jersey one last time in front of his own people, rather than in a stadium thousands of kilometers away.
Of course, his journey in club football is not stopping yet. He will continue to play for Inter Miami. Therefore, his own decision and will would be the key factor in returning to the national team.
All in all, while discussions about Messi’s potential farewell match have begun, nothing is final yet. Opponent, time, venue—everything remains uncertain. Ultimately, the answer to whether Messi will be seen once more in an Argentina jersey depends solely on one person: Lionel Messi.