Lionel Messi's retirement leaves Argentina in turmoil

Argentina’s post-Messi era has begun with uncertainty extending beyond the national team. Lionel Messi, 39, has ended his international career, removing the leader who took the country to the top and leaving the Argentine Football Association facing questions over its next phase.

AFA president Claudio Tapia is involved in a legal case linked to allegations of money laundering. Claims of serious financial problems have also raised doubts about bonuses owed to players and staff from the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. Those claims have been rejected in Argentina, where the explanation is that qualification bonuses are paid 180 days after the tournament and therefore cannot yet be distributed.

The federation’s situation is also tied to Lionel Scaloni. His contract expires in December, and there are conflicting positions over whether he will remain. One view is that the coach considers his cycle complete and wants to leave. The AFA, however, continues to trust him and is prepared to wait before deciding the future of the project that has brought Argentina its most successful period.

Argentina has scheduled September friendlies against Burkina Faso, Bolivia and Benin. Senior players including Lautaro Martinez, Cristian Romero, Rodrigo De Paul, Julian Alvarez, Emiliano Martinez and Alexis Mac Allister could be rested. The strength of the opposition, uncertainty over bonuses and the transition after Messi are all factors surrounding those matches.