Global media reports have revealed that Lionel Scaloni, head coach of the Argentina national team, has chosen the successor to Lionel Messi for the iconic number 10 jersey following Messi's retirement from international football.
According to "ESPN ARGENTINA," Lionel Scaloni has selected Nico Paz, the star of Como, as the heir to the number 10 shirt previously worn by Lionel Messi.
The 21-year-old Nico Paz is set to inherit the historic number 10 jersey, surpassing several prominent stars in the Argentine squad, provided Scaloni renews his contract until 2030.
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Scaloni's decision comes after both Messi and Nicolás Otamendi announced their retirement from international football following the 2026 World Cup finals. Previously, Paz wore the number 18 jersey during his initial appearances for the World Cup runners-up.
Although names such as Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister emerged as candidates, Scaloni has strongly endorsed Paz to lead the new era of the Argentine national team.
Lionel Scaloni is preparing to announce the first official squad list for the Argentina national team in the coming days, submitting a 26-player roster to the Argentine Federation without including Lionel Messi.
Negotiations for the Argentine national team to embark on a high-profile tour, including a friendly match against the Chinese national team, have stalled. Chinese organizers had insisted on guarantees regarding the participation of the Argentine legend and Inter Miami star.
The Argentina national team will play a series of upcoming friendly matches at home, although the federation has not yet officially confirmed the identities of the opponents. The team is scheduled to play three matches, with the possibility of extending to four.
