Messi Argentina farewell plans take shape as Lionel Scaloni confirms the captain is expected to join camp ahead of his final international appearance

Lionel Messi, Argentina captain and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is expected to join Lionel Scaloni’s squad in Buenos Aires on Sunday, October 4, 2026, after Argentina’s friendly against Burkina Faso, as preparations continue for Messi’s farewell appearance for the national team.

Also read: Raphinha Leaves Brazil Camp After Minor Muscle Issue

Scaloni confirmed that Messi could also feature against Burkina Faso if he chooses to do so, despite the forward’s planned farewell match against Benin.

“For sure, Messi is expected to join the camp on Sunday after the game against Burkina Faso,” Scaloni said, according to Fabrizio Romano.

“If he wants to play on October 3 too, no problem,” the Argentina coach added.

Messi’s involvement comes as Argentina prepares for an emotional period for one of the most decorated players in international football.

The 39-year-old has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, bringing an extraordinary international career closer to its conclusion.

Messi is scheduled to play against Benin at the Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, October 6. The fixture is expected to serve as a farewell appearance for the Argentina captain.

The match will give supporters in Buenos Aires an opportunity to celebrate a player whose international career has included major tournament triumphs and several defining moments for La Albiceleste.

Messi’s journey with Argentina has been unusually long and eventful. After making his senior international debut in 2005, he went on to become the country’s record goalscorer and most-capped player.

His international career reached a defining point at the 2021 Copa América, when Argentina defeated Brazil in the final to secure Messi’s first major senior international trophy with the national team.

A year later, Messi helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, scoring seven goals during the tournament and playing a central role in the team’s campaign.

Argentina subsequently retained the Copa América title in 2024, giving Messi another major international honour before the final stage of his career.

His farewell therefore carries considerable significance for Argentine supporters, particularly after the highs of the past five years.

Scaloni, who has worked closely with Messi throughout Argentina’s recent period of success, has also left the door open for the forward to participate in the Burkina Faso fixture if Messi wants to do so.

That possibility means Messi could have another opportunity to wear the Argentina shirt before the planned farewell against Benin.

The final decision will rest with Messi and the coaching staff.

For Argentina, the transition will mark the beginning of a new era. Messi has been central to the national team’s identity for almost two decades, while younger players have increasingly taken on greater responsibility alongside him.

His departure will therefore leave a significant gap in both leadership and attacking quality.

For now, however, Argentina’s attention remains on the remaining fixtures and on giving Messi the opportunity to decide how he wants to conclude his international career.

The planned meeting with Benin at the Estadio Mâs Monumental is expected to provide the defining farewell moment.

Also read: Raphinha Leaves Brazil Camp After Minor Muscle Issue

For millions of Argentine supporters, it will be a chance to say goodbye to a player who has been at the heart of the national team through triumph, disappointment and, ultimately, a historic period of success.