Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has announced Cristian Romero as the national team's new captain following Lionel Messi's international retirement. Romero, an Atletico Madrid defender, will take over the armband as Argentina enter a new phase of development. Scaloni confirmed Romero's new role while discussing Argentina's leadership hierarchy ahead of upcoming international fixtures. Romero had already been part of Argentina's leadership group before Messi and Nicolas Otamendi left the national team.
Romero has captained Argentina on three previous occasions under Scaloni. He first wore the armband in a 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Chile, then led the team in a friendly against Venezuela and a 2-1 win over Mauritania. Scaloni praised Romero, saying "Cuti is the right one." Romero will lead the team in their upcoming international fixtures, starting with a farewell match for Messi against Benin on October 6.
The decision to appoint Romero as captain is part of Scaloni's plan to reshape the team around a new generation of leaders. Messi and Otamendi left the national team after the 2026 World Cup, and Scaloni is building a new team. Romero, 28, is one of the players expected to take on a leadership role. Scaloni also mentioned other players who can wear the armband, including Emiliano Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Lautaro Martinez.
Messi will be honoured during his farewell match against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. The match will mark the end of an era for Argentina, with Messi having been the team's captain for many years. Romero's appointment is seen as a key move in Argentina's transition into the post-Messi era.
Argentina have suffered injury setbacks ahead of their upcoming fixtures, with Thiago Almada and Juan Foyth ruled out of the squad. The team will have to adapt to these changes as they prepare for their next matches. Scaloni will have to make adjustments to his lineup and strategy in the absence of these players.
Romero's experience and leadership skills make him a suitable choice as captain. He has played for Atletico Madrid and has been part of Argentina's leadership group. Scaloni is confident that Romero will lead the team effectively in the post-Messi era. The team's performance in their upcoming fixtures will be closely watched as they begin this new chapter.
The post-Messi era begins for Argentina with a farewell match for their legendary captain. The team's new generation of leaders, including Romero, will take center stage. The team's progress and development will be closely monitored as they move forward without Messi.
Key points
- Cristian Romero has been named as Argentina's new captain following Lionel Messi's international retirement.
- Romero has captained Argentina on three previous occasions under Scaloni.
- Argentina will play a farewell match for Messi against Benin on October 6.
