Argentina Prepares for Post-Messi Era Ahead of Friendlies

The Argentina national football team is entering a new era as preparations begin for upcoming international friendlies against Uruguay and Costa Rica this November. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has called up a 28-player squad for the matches, marking the first time the Albiceleste will take the field without retired legends Lionel Messi and Nicolás Otamendi.

The two veteran players made their final international appearances during the previous international break against Benin, closing out historic careers with the national team. Now, Scaloni and his squad are tasked with the challenge of moving forward and building toward the 2030 FIFA World Cup without two of their most influential figures.

The upcoming fixtures will serve as a crucial proving ground for younger and less experienced players looking to cement their places in the squad. Scaloni's newly released roster features several fresh faces, including 21-year-old Chelsea youngster Aaron Anselmino, Roma forward Santiago Castro and his club teammate Matías Soulé, uncapped Parma defender Mariano Troilo, and Zenit St. Petersburg full-back Román Vega.

Argentina is scheduled to face Uruguay first on Friday, November 13, at La Bombonera, before traveling to play CONCACAF opponent Costa Rica four days later on Tuesday, November 17, at Mario Kempes Stadium in Córdoba.

Meanwhile, the transition comes on the heels of a demanding competitive cycle that included the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina reached the final before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Spain in extra time. Despite the disappointing end to the tournament, forward Lautaro Martínez recently defended the team's relentless effort, noting that a grueling semifinal against England left several players, including Otamendi, carrying significant physical fatigue and injuries.

Domestically, Nicolás Otamendi has also been in the headlines following his club commitments with River Plate. Following a contentious Superclásico defeat, the defender voiced strong frustrations regarding refereeing decisions and league governance, criticizing the organization of Argentine football competitions.

As Argentina turns its focus to the pitch, the absence of Messi and Otamendi will undoubtedly change the dynamic of the national team. Scaloni and his new generation of players will look to establish their own identity as they kick off the road to future international tournaments.