Lionel Messi completes his final training session with the Argentine national team before his definitive farewell
In a day filled with nostalgia and camaraderie, Lionel Messi completed his final training session with the Argentine national team this Monday at the Argentine Football Association (AFA) complex in Ezeiza. The Albiceleste captain is preparing to play his last official match with the national team this Tuesday against Benin, putting the finishing touch on a legendary career spanning more than two decades.
The training session, held at the sports complex that has borne his name since 2023, took place in a relaxed atmosphere. Messi appeared smiling alongside his teammates, participating in the traditional rondo drills and ball work under the watchful eye of the press and invited figures, such as former footballers Ezequiel Lavezzi and Cristian ‘Kily’ González.
A historic cycle closure
The session featured the presence of key players who rejoined the group, such as Rodrigo de Paul, Giovani Lo Celso, and Nicolás Otamendi. It is worth noting that this match against Benin will not only mark Messi’s retirement, but it will also be Nicolás Otamendi’s final farewell to the Argentine national team.
The star from Rosario, who announced his retirement last August 31st, says goodbye leaving an indelible legacy that includes the conquest of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, the 2021 and 2024 Copa América, and the 2022 Finalissima.
Event details at the Monumental
- The match against Benin will be Lionel Messi’s 208th game wearing the Argentina jersey.
- The event will take place at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, with total attendance confirmed after tickets sold out in record time.
- A tribute ceremony by the AFA and his fellow world champion teammates is expected to honor the captain’s career.
This friendly match closes a window of three fixtures for the national team, following previous victories against Bolivia and Burkina Faso. With this act, Argentina officially begins a new stage, marking the end of the era of the greatest historical figure in national football.
