Is Lionel Messi going to play a farewell game in Argentina? Recent report reveals Scaloni’s team decision

Lionel Messi’s last appearance in Argentina before the World Cup and his retirement came against Zambia in March, when he scored a goal and provided an assist.

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football on the last day of August, confirming that the World Cup final against Spain in July was his final game in the Argentina jersey as he steps away from national duties.

While the news was expected by the majority of football fans and the wider community, many were still left taken aback by the thought of Messi no longer being seen in the iconic blue and white stripes.

However, a recent report that emerged on Tuesday hints that one final goodbye could still be in store for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, with Messi potentially set to receive a farewell in his own homeland.

Is Lionel Messi going to play a farewell game?

According to Federico Bueno, an Argentine journalist who reports for ESPN and Fox Sports, Lionel Messi’s name has appeared on Argentina’s call-up list for the upcoming international friendlies, which are scheduled to be played on home soil.

Before the World Cup, the 39-year-old’s last appearance in Argentina came in a friendly against Zambia on March 31, 2026.

Messi scored once and provided an assist in that game. At the time, although many expected the World Cup to be his final tournament with the national team, it had not been confirmed whether he would retire immediately after the competition.