Argentina’s iconic number 10 awaits its next era after Messi

Argentina will leave the famous number 10 unassigned for now following Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football, with Nico Paz emerging as the leading candidate to inherit the shirt worn by Mario Kempes, Diego Maradona and the country’s record-breaking captain.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, manager Lionel Scaloni does not intend to give the number to a particular player during the current period. The decision will instead be made closer to Argentina’s next competitive fixtures, reflecting the significance attached to a shirt that has come to represent leadership, creativity and national success.

Messi announced the end of his international career on 7 October, closing an 18-year association with Argentina. The Inter Miami forward wore the number 10 throughout much of that period and made 171 appearances for his country between 2008 and 2026.

He guided Argentina to three major honours: the Copa America in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 World Cup. The number featured in 118 of his 126 international goals, while Messi also became Argentina’s leading scorer, record appearance-maker and top assist provider. He holds further World Cup records for appearances, goals and assists.

Figures cited elsewhere in the Spanish report list Messi with 125 goals and 68 assists in 207 international matches, underlining the scale of his contribution to the national team.

The next number 10 will face a challenge that extends beyond tactics. Argentina will need a player capable of creating a new identity rather than trying to reproduce Messi’s influence, while also coping with inevitable comparisons to one of the greatest players in football history.

The leading contenders

Nico Paz is currently regarded as the strongest candidate. The Como attacking midfielder has impressed under Cesc Fabregas, scoring six goals and providing eight assists in 13 matches, according to AS. His ability to create chances, operate between the lines and influence attacks in tight areas has placed him at the front of the race.

Julian Alvarez offers a different profile. The Atletico Madrid forward has played an important role in Argentina’s recent achievements and brings major-tournament experience, pressing ability and intelligent movement. His appointment would represent a more direct attacking interpretation of the shirt.

Enzo Fernandez is another option, having established himself as a central figure in midfield since his breakthrough at the 2022 World Cup, when he scored against Mexico. His control of the tempo, distribution and leadership qualities have made him difficult to omit from Argentina’s team. Chelsea also made him captain soon after his arrival.

Alexis Mac Allister has worn number 10 during spells with Argentinos Juniors, Brighton and Liverpool. His versatility, technical quality and ability to contribute both in possession and defensively could make him the most balanced midfield choice.

Franco Mastantuono completes the group. After attracting attention at River Plate, he moved to Real Madrid amid high expectations but has yet to establish himself regularly in Europe. His talent and profile remain significant, although consistent performances will be needed.

A shirt shaped by history

Argentina’s number 10 has also been worn by Angel Di Maria, Sergio Aguero, Paulo Dybala and Angel Correa during Messi’s absences. It has never been restricted to one position: Aguero wore it seven times, while Enzo Perez, Nico Gaitan, Hector Canteros, Di Maria and Dybala each wore it twice.

The shirt’s history stretches from Alfredo Rojas and “Cacho” Heredia to Kempes, who wore it during Argentina’s 1978 triumph, and Maradona, whose performances at the 1982, 1986, 1990 and 1994 World Cups made the number globally iconic. It was even worn by goalkeeper Nacho Gonzalez at the 1997 Copa America under Daniel Passarella’s alphabetical numbering system.

At the World Cup, Ariel Ortega wore it in 1998 and 2002, Juan Roman Riquelme in 2006, and Messi from 2010 through 2026. Whoever eventually receives it will therefore inherit far more than a squad number.