BUENOS AIRES: Lionel Messi has unveiled a special Argentina jersey for his farewell international appearance on home soil.
Messi is set to play his final match for Argentina against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on October 6. The Argentine Football Association has included him in the squad for the fixture.
The commemorative Adidas jersey features Messi’s name and iconic No. 10 in gold on the back. It retains Argentina’s traditional sky-blue and white colours, while a distinctive pattern and Sun of May design give the shirt a special look.
Messi shared images of the jersey on Instagram with the message:
“One last match… A jersey for a lifetime.”
The special shirt will mark the end of Messi’s international career, which began with his senior debut for Argentina in 2005.
Messi’s Argentina Legacy
Messi announced his international retirement on August 31 after more than two decades with the national team. The AFA described his career as one spanning titles, records and Argentina’s World Cup triumph.
His international career included major disappointments before Argentina finally ended its long wait for a major trophy.
After losing the 2014 World Cup final to Germany and the 2016 Copa America final to Chile, Messi helped Argentina win the Copa America in 2021.
He then played a central role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar. Argentina defeated France on penalties after the final ended 3-3 following extra time.
Argentina also retained the Copa America title in 2024.
The AFA says Messi leaves the national team as captain, world champion and the team’s record appearance holder and leading scorer.
Farewell Match Set for October 6
Argentina will play three home friendlies during the upcoming international window.
The team will face Bolivia in Cordoba on September 30 and Burkina Faso at the Monumental on October 3 before Messi’s farewell against Benin on October 6. The AFA has confirmed ticket arrangements for all three matches.
The farewell match will give Messi the opportunity to appear for Argentina in front of home supporters one final time.
The 39-year-old has spent more than two decades representing Argentina and won the country’s biggest international honours during his career.
