Lionel Scaloni, head coach of Argentina, has announced that Cristian "Cuti" Romero will be the new captain of the national team following Lionel Messi's international retirement. This decision comes as Argentina prepares for its first matches without Messi, who is retiring after a celebrated 21-year career, during which he became the nation's all-time leading scorer with 125 goals.
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Scaloni confirmed Romero’s appointment ahead of upcoming friendlies, stating, "The captain is going to be Cuti. He was already the third captain after Leo (Messi) and Ota (Nicolas Otamendi)." He added that while Romero will wear the armband, other players such as Emiliano Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Lautaro Martinez could also lead the team depending on the lineup and match circumstances.
Argentina's next matches will take place on September 30 against Bolivia in Cordoba and on October 3 against Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires. Messi is expected to return for an emotional farewell match on October 6 against Benin, where he will earn his 208th cap. This match is anticipated to be a celebration of his illustrious career as well.