The Albiceleste may be witnessing the end of a golden era. Leandro Paredes, Lionel Messi’s teammate in the Argentina national team, confirmed that the captain "had made the decision" to retire after the match against Spain last Sunday. With a record of 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in their last five games (WWWLD), including a 2-0 victory over Angola on November 14, 2025, Messi leaves an indelible legacy.

What happened in Messi’s last match?

The game against Spain, where Argentina lost, marked Messi’s possible farewell to the national team. Paredes, who shared the dressing room with him, expressed his sorrow: "We didn’t want the last match to arrive. He had made a decision, which was that it would be his last match for the Argentina national team." The Boca Juniors midfielder added: "I hope not, that he can keep playing."

Why does it matter for Argentina?

Messi’s possible retirement poses a monumental challenge for the Albiceleste. At 38, the Rosario star leaves a void that will be hard to fill. Paredes, who at 32 is also evaluating his future with the national team, noted: "It will be very difficult to maintain this level, for the group to keep functioning this way."

What’s next for the Argentina national team?

The team’s future faces a transitional moment. Paredes, who assisted Miguel Merentiel in Boca Juniors’ 1-0 win over O’Higgins in the Copa Sudamericana, reflected: "It will be his decision. Whatever makes him happy will surely make us happy too." Meanwhile, the Albiceleste will seek to consolidate its legacy with the new generations.