In collaboration with 
Enzo Fernandes expresses his ambition to be Lionel Messi’s successor in the Argentina national team. The Chelsea midfielder, who dons the legendary number 10, says he would gladly take over the captaincy from Messi, which will become available for the latter’s last World Cup appearance.
Messi’s Argentina Record: Caps and Goals
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has yet to announce if he will participate in Argentina’s World Cup title defense in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico next summer, although he is widely expected to do so after having already played his last international game.
Messi will lead his country into another significant tournament, building on past successes including two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. To date, he has achieved 196 caps and netted 115 goals.
The Next Captain: Who Will Succeed Messi?
The time is approaching for Messi’s departure. In his absence, a leader must emerge. Fernandes, who has held the captain’s armband at Chelsea, believes he is prepared to step into that role.
The determined 24-year-old stated, “On a personal level, I certainly dream of captaining the Argentina national team, but that choice lies with the coaching staff. It’s a dream of mine, and it would be an honor to wear the armband.”
“I can’t predict when that might happen. Time will tell, and the coaching staff has the final say. It remains one of my dreams, and wearing the captain’s armband would be a great honor.”
Argentina Prepares to Defend World Cup Title
Fernandes excelled alongside Messi during Argentina’s triumph at the 2022 World Cup, earning the tournament’s best young player award at just 20. He is eager to make a strong push for back-to-back World Cup victories.
The Chelsea midfielder remarked, “We aim to defend our title and win again. The Argentine people are passionate and always expect more. Our mindset is to protect our World Cup crown and ensure a strong tournament performance, which means winning.”
A second World Cup victory would solidify Messi’s legacy, and Fernandes along with the rest of the team are aware that they are approaching the conclusion of a remarkable career. They strive to create yet another unforgettable celebration.
Fernandes emphasized, “Winning the World Cup is part of our past, but our focus is on what lies ahead. We recognize that this might be Messi’s last World Cup, so we are committed as a team to defend our title against Qatar. We will do everything we can to keep the championship.”
Will Messi Compete in the 2026 World Cup?
Messi indicated that he plans to join the Argentina national team next summer, but the enduring 38-year-old worries about not being in peak form following his transition from MLS to Inter Miami. “I don’t want to burden the team; I want to be in shape to contribute effectively,” he stated. “The season differs from the European one, with a pre-season and fewer games until the World Cup, but we’ll see how it unfolds.”
“Naturally, we realize this is the World Cup, a unique event, and it’s the biggest tournament. So while we’re excited, we’re taking it one day at a time.”
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, has left the possibility open for Messi to play for as long as he desires, ensuring that the iconic number 10 will not face premature retirement from international football. He played a crucial role in leading Inter Miami to a historic MLS Cup final in 2025, demonstrating that his game-changing prowess remains intact.
