The Argentina national football team is poised to resume its campaign this week, stepping into a new era following the departure of several key players and uncertainties surrounding both the squad’s and the manager’s futures.
As reigning Copa America champions and runners-up at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina will return to the pitch this Wednesday in a friendly against Bolivia. The match, however, will notably take place without Lionel Messi, who is expected to join the squad shortly to participate in what is anticipated to be his final international appearance on October 6.
The national team faces significant transition. Alongside Messi’s international retirement, veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi has also stepped away from the national setup. Additionally, influential players such as Leandro Paredes and Rodrigo De Paul remain undecided regarding their international futures, leaving the squad’s composition uncertain.
Amid this period of upheaval, Lionel Scaloni, the team’s manager, finds his own tenure under scrutiny. His current contract is valid until the end of 2026, but questions have swirled about whether he will continue beyond that point. Many speculated that Messi’s departure might prompt Scaloni to step down as well, given the anticipated extensive changes within the squad.
Scaloni Confirms Intent to Stay with Argentina
Contrary to widespread assumptions, Scaloni has recently expressed a clear desire to remain at the helm of the Argentina national team. Acknowledging the significant restructuring ahead, he emphasized that the squad will undergo major changes but affirmed his commitment to guiding the team through this transition.