Messi in Argentina’s Jersey Again?

Lionel Messi had announced his retirement from international football by sharing a heartfelt note, handwritten by himself on three torn pages of a diary, on social media. The sudden decision by Argentina’s World Cup-winning captain left football fans stunned. Many had believed that he would at least play in the 2028 Copa America before bringing his career to an end.

Usually, legendary players receive their farewell on the pitch, with packed stands and an emotional atmosphere created by thousands of fans. But Messi’s case was different. His announcement on social media, made away from the pitch after the 2026 World Cup final defeat, left a sense of incompleteness among Argentina supporters. As a result, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is now considering bringing the greatest captain in Argentina’s history back onto the field for one final farewell. However, this would not be a competitive match; instead, a special farewell friendly would be arranged in Messi’s honor.

According to a report by the Times of India, the AFA could organize a special friendly during the next FIFA international window to bid farewell to Messi. However, no official decision has been made yet. Discussions have already begun, though. First and foremost, the AFA will need to confirm whether Messi himself is willing to take part in the match. If the plan becomes a reality, Argentina supporters will have a wonderful opportunity to officially bid farewell to the greatest footballer of all time on home soil.

The report further stated that the AFA is considering holding Messi’s farewell match during the next FIFA window, scheduled from September 21 to October 6. The association could organize two or three friendly matches during that period. According to claims from several media outlets, Argentina could even play a total of three or four matches during this window.

Meanwhile, Argentine journalist Pablo Gravellone of Todo Noticias has said that all indications point to Messi playing the final international match of his life on home soil.

The possible venue for the match could be Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental, where Argentina usually play their home matches. There is also a possibility of holding the match in Messi’s hometown of Rosario, although that option is considered somewhat less likely.

According to a report by Maximiliano Grillo of TNT Sports Argentina, “Argentina is working toward organizing two or three friendly matches in September. The matches could be held in Buenos Aires, Cordoba or Rosario, but the opponents have not yet been finalized.”

The opponent, date and final venue for Messi’s farewell match have not yet been decided. The entire matter is still at the media-report stage, and an official announcement from the AFA is awaited. Before anything else, the Argentine football governing body will discuss with Messi whether he is willing to return to the pitch for this special occasion.