Scaloni: Messi to have farewell match on October 6 at the Monumental
Scaloni included 39-year-old Lionel Messi for the Benin friendly so the striker can say goodbye; "It will be hard not to cry that day," he said.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said Lionel Messi will be given a proper farewell in a friendly against Benin on October 6 at River Plate's Monumental stadium, a match that Scaloni warned would be emotional for players and fans alike.
Scaloni confirms Messi will join for third friendly
Scaloni explained that the 39-year-old, who announced the end of his international career at the end of August, was included in the squad so he could finish his time with the national team on his own terms. "It will be hard not to cry that day; it's a privilege to be there," he said.
Argentina will begin a run of three friendlies on September 30 with a match against Bolivia in Córdoba, followed by a home game versus Burkina Faso on October 3 in Buenos Aires. Messi will join the squad only for the third match, against Benin on October 6, which will be staged at the Monumental — a venue that holds about 85,000 spectators.
Scaloni also voiced support for Messi's ongoing individual recognition, saying, "If this award is for the best player..." suggesting the forward remains deserving of another Ballon d'Or.
On his own future with the national team, Scaloni avoided committing to plans beyond the year: "As for me, nothing new is happening," he said, adding that he has not yet held talks with Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia. Scaloni's contract runs until the end of the year.
The announcement confirms that Argentina is arranging a ceremonial send-off for Messi while keeping its autumn friendly schedule intact.
Photo: press material from the event
