Lionel Messi rested for Ecuador qualifier, Atletico Madrid star handed Argentina’s No.10 jersey
Argentina rest Lionel Messi for Ecuador qualifier as Thiago Almada steps in to wear the legendary No.10 jersey for the Albiceleste.
New Delhi: Argentina will be without their captain, Lionel Messi, when they play Ecuador in their upcoming World Cup qualifier. The eight-time Ballon d'Or Winner has been given rest by coach Lionel Scaloni, with Atletico Madrid star Thiago Almada expected to step into the iconic No. 10 shirt.
Messi’s absence is more precautionary than anything else as he featured in an emotional match against Venezuela recently, which many believe could be his last competitive appearance on home soil for the Albiceleste. The 37-year-old marked the occasion in fitting style, scoring twice in a 3-0 win. With Argentina already qualified for next summer’s World Cup, there was little incentive to risk their talisman’s fitness against Ecuador.
The decision will also be welcomed by Inter Miami, who are eager to have their captain back in full shape for their MLS clash against Charlotte. Messi is not travelling with the national team and is expected to return to the United States to continue preparations with his club.
Almada gets big chance
In Messi's absence the famous No.10 jersey will be passed on to Almada, according to reports by ESPN. At just 24, the playmaker has already built a strong reputation, shining in MLS with Atlanta United before making the move to Atletico Madrid. He has just 11 senior international caps to his name but was part of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad in Qatar two years ago.
Wearing the shirt once donned by Diego Maradona and Messi brings enormous responsibility, but Almada has some history with it, having worn the No.10 at youth level. Now, he has the opportunity to prove that he can shoulder the creative role for the national side, even if only temporarily.
For Scaloni, this is also a chance to test the squad’s depth in attack. The reigning champions have been searching for players who can carry the creative load when Messi is unavailable and Almada’s form in Europe could make him a strong candidate for more minutes moving forward.
The only question remains over Messi’s long-term international future, with speculation around whether he will play at the 2026 World Cup. Though, for now the focus shifts to Almada, who will look to make his mark in a high-stakes qualifier wearing the most famous number in Argentine football.