Argentina will choose the player to wear Lionel Messi’s No. 10 jersey under certain conditions.
Lionel Messi was often called a little magician on the field, and now that he’s retiring from international football, his big shoes will be hard to fill. This week, Messi announced he’s done playing for Argentina, retiring as captain with a World Cup winner’s medal and saying he has ‘nothing left to give’ in the sky blue and white jersey.
After playing 207 times for his country, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has left an amazing legacy. The famous number 10 shirt, worn by Messi and before him by Diego Maradona, will be a big honor and challenge for whoever gets it next.
According to news from Argentina, they’ve already picked who might take over the number 10— but only if one thing happens first. ESPN Argentina says the future of the shirt depends on the future of head coach Lionel Scaloni, who led Argentina to win the World Cup in 2022 and reach the final again in 2026.
Scaloni, 48, has been coach since 2018 and is expected to sign a new contract in the next few months. If that happens, the number 10 shirt will likely go to 21-year-old attacking midfielder Nico Paz.
Although born in Spain, Paz’s dad played for Argentina. Paz grew up at Real Madrid Castilla and moved to Italy’s Como in 2024 after a few games with Real Madrid’s first team. He’s known as one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking players and has done well under coach Cesc Fabregas.
Paz has played 11 times for Argentina and scored 19 goals in 77 games in Italy. Fans have talked about him returning to Real Madrid since he left. He’s a creative player who fits the role well, but carrying the number 10 shirt also means facing big pressure and expectations.
After all, he’s following one of the greatest footballers ever. Messi said in his statement:
“It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand the time has come. I promise I always gave my best, not just in recent years winning everything, but before too. I fought and left it all on the field to make you happy and proud to be Argentine.”
He added, “Time runs out, chapters end, and this one hurts me. I love being part of the national team and always will. I’ve given everything I had, and now great young players deserve their chance.”