Messi’s farewell chapter begins in Rosario

Lionel Messi has arrived in Rosario for the last international appearance of his legendary career, touching down with his family four days before Argentina’s farewell friendly against Benin. The private jet carrying Messi, his wife Antonela, their three sons and his mother landed at Islas Malvinas Airport early Friday, after which the forward travelled to his home in Funes to spend the weekend before joining Lionel Scaloni’s squad. Initially expected to report after Saturday’s match against Burkina Faso, Messi skipped that fixture but may still attend from the stands.

The showcase on 6 October with Benin at the Estadio Monumental has been arranged specifically to honour the captain following his retirement announcement on 31 August. Messi ends his Albiceleste journey with 207 caps, 125 goals and a trophy haul including the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles and the Finalissima. Tickets for his final bow sold out within minutes, setting the stage for an emotional send‑off.