Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed Cristian "Cuti" Romero as the next captain of the national team, succeeding Lionel Messi who is set to retire from international football. Romero, an Atlético Madrid defender, will inherit the captain's armband after Messi's final appearance for Argentina on October 6 against Benin. This marks the beginning of a new leadership era for the world champions.
Romero was already part of the leadership hierarchy behind Messi and Nicolás Otamendi, and Scaloni believes he is the right person for the role. Romero had previously served as Argentina's third captain, with other players like Emiliano Martínez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Lautaro Martínez also capable of wearing the armband. Scaloni's decision effectively ends speculation over who would replace Messi as Argentina's principal captain.
Messi has been Argentina's principal captain for most of the last 15 years, leading the team to significant victories including Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory in Qatar, and the Finalissima triumph over Italy. His time as captain has been one of the most successful periods in Argentina's history. Messi will receive an official farewell when Argentina faces Benin at the Monumental Stadium on October 6.
Romero is not new to the responsibility of leading Argentina, having previously worn the captain's armband in three matches, including a World Cup qualifying victory over Chile in 2025 and a friendly against Venezuela later that year. He also captained Tottenham during the 2025-26 season before moving to Atlético Madrid. His experience at both club and international levels makes him a suitable choice for the role.
Romero's appointment is part of a broader generational transition within the Argentina squad, with several members of the leadership group that surrounded Messi either retiring or no longer certain to remain central to Scaloni's plans. Ángel Di María has already retired from international football, while experienced figures like Otamendi and Martínez remain part of the wider leadership group.
Scaloni has identified players like Martínez, De Paul, and Lautaro Martínez as potential alternatives to Romero for the armband when circumstances require it. This ensures that the leadership hierarchy remains broader than the captaincy itself, with Argentina retaining several experienced players capable of providing leadership within the squad.
Romero's appointment comes at the end of an era in which Argentina collected major international honours under Scaloni. He will now be expected to provide leadership as Argentina begins its next international cycle without Messi as its permanent captain. Messi's final farewell awaits on October 6, marking the end of one of the defining chapters in Argentina's history and the beginning of another.
Key points
- Cristian Romero has been named as Lionel Messi's successor as captain of Argentina's national team.
- Romero will inherit the captain's armband after Messi's final appearance for Argentina on October 6 against Benin.
- Romero's appointment is part of a broader generational transition within the Argentina squad.
