Cristian Romero named Argentina captain as Lionel Messi era comes to an end

Cristian Romero has been appointed Argentina’s new captain following Lionel Messi’s international retirement, marking the first major leadership decision as the world champions begin a new chapter.

The Atletico de Madrid defender, 28, has been chosen by manager Lionel Scaloni to lead the national team on the pitch and in the dressing room. The decision comes after the end of an era that began with Messi’s Argentina debut in August 2005, when he played in a friendly against Hungary.

Messi’s departure brings to a close a 21-year period in which Argentina established itself as one of the dominant forces in international football. It also leaves the squad facing the significant challenge of rebuilding its leadership structure while maintaining the competitive standards developed during the former captain’s time with the team.

According to Argentina-based publication TyC Sports, the decision to promote Romero had been under consideration before the most recent World Cup. The defender had already been appointed third captain, behind Messi and Nicolas Otamendi, both of whom have since left the national team following the last World Cup.

Scaloni opted for Romero ahead of several experienced alternatives, including Emiliano Martinez, who had previously captained the side under the Argentine coach, and Nicolas Tagliafico.

Romero, who came through the Belgrano academy, will now take responsibility for leading Argentina during its next phase. However, uncertainty remains over whether Scaloni will still be in charge in 2027. The manager is continuing talks with the Argentine Football Association over a contract extension.

The defender will not be wearing the armband for the first time when Argentina return to action in September. The opponents for those friendly matches are due to be announced this week, but Romero has already captained his country on three occasions during his 58 appearances for the national team, all of them under Scaloni.

His first experience as captain came last year in an away World Cup qualifier against Chile in South America. Argentina won that match 1-0.

Romero wore the armband again during a friendly against Venezuela in October. He most recently led the team in March, when Argentina recorded a 2-1 victory over Mauritania.

His promotion reflects the trust placed in him by Scaloni as Argentina prepare to move beyond the leadership of Messi and the players who helped define the team’s recent success. The appointment also signals a reshaping of the squad’s hierarchy, with Romero now positioned as the central figure in the dressing room and on the field.

Argentina’s next international fixtures will therefore provide the first opportunity to see the new captain formally assume his role, although his previous appearances as skipper mean the transition is unlikely to be entirely unfamiliar to the squad.