The looming question of Argentina's future without Lionel Messi continues to be a subject of intense discussion and, frankly, trepidation within the footballing world. While the nation has tasted victory with Messi at the helm, including the coveted 2022 World Cup, the inevitable day of his retirement casts a long shadow.
Argentine defender Nicolás Tagliafico recently voiced a sentiment shared by many: "Nobody will be ready for when Leo is no longer here". Speaking to Radio La Red, Tagliafico reflected on Messi's extraordinary two-decade-long career with the national team, emphasizing the irreplaceable void he will leave. He suggested that Messi might remain connected to the Argentine Football Association (AFA) in some capacity, perhaps as part of the coaching staff.
The concern isn't unfounded. Messi has been the driving force behind Argentina's successes for years, leading them to a World Cup final in 2014, multiple Copa América finals, and finally, Copa America title and the World Cup victory in 2022. His influence extends beyond mere statistics; he embodies the hopes and dreams of a nation.
However, there's a growing recognition that Argentina must prepare for a future without their talisman. Coach Lionel Scaloni has expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform effectively with or without Messi, a sentiment echoed after Argentina secured their spot at the 2026 World Cup during a CONMEBOL qualifying window where Messi was absent. Scaloni noted that in the past, the team heavily relied on Messi, but now they have evolved to a point where they can maintain their playing style regardless of his presence. This evolution signals a crucial step in Argentina's journey towards self-sufficiency on the field.
The question remains: how exactly does a team prepare for the departure of a player who has defined an era? It's not simply about finding a replacement; it's about fostering a new identity, a new system that can thrive independently of Messi's brilliance. Potential successors will need time to develop, and the team will need to learn to function cohesively without relying on his individual brilliance.
Argentina's history offers some perspective. After a defeat against Chile in the Copa America final in 2016, Messi announced his retirement from international football. The decision was short-lived, but it served as a stark reminder of the void his absence would create. In the years since his return, Argentina has worked to build a stronger, more resilient squad, capable of weathering storms even without their captain.
While there's no replacing Messi, Argentina can focus on nurturing emerging talents and building a team with depth and tactical flexibility. The strong showing during the CONMEBOL qualifying window, even in Messi's absence, offers a glimmer of hope. It suggests that the team is developing the capacity to compete at the highest level, regardless of who is on the pitch.
Ultimately, Argentina's success in the post-Messi era will depend on their ability to embrace change, foster young talent, and cultivate a collective identity that transcends individual brilliance. While "nobody will be ready" for Messi's retirement, Argentina can strive to be as prepared as possible, ensuring that the legacy of the greatest player of his generation serves as a foundation for future success.
