Messi returns to Argentina to prepare for his farewell match; his 21-year national team career will come to an end.

Lionel Messi and his family flew from Miami to his hometown of Rosario on a private jet, officially beginning his farewell tour with the Argentine national team.

Lionel Messi is scheduled to play in a friendly against Benin in Buenos Aires next Tuesday, which will be his last appearance in the blue and white jersey. The Argentine Football Association stated that the purpose of hosting the match is to ensure that the world football legend receives the high regard he deserves in his hometown.

Previously, Messi officially announced his retirement from the national team on August 31. During his 21-year national team career, he scored a total of 125 goals, leading the team to win the 2022 World Cup and reaching the World Cup final twice, in 2014 and this year.

Many key players from the 2022 championship-winning team will be present for this farewell match to celebrate, but Paulo Dybala and Navel Molina will unfortunately be absent due to their club Roma refusing to release them.

Messi did not participate in any other matches during this international break. Argentina defeated Bolivia 4-0 on Wednesday, but their friendly match against Burkina Faso on Saturday is now uncertain due to the opponent's travel disruptions.

The Burkina Faso national team's chartered flight after participating in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Morocco was cancelled. Although the local football association and the embassy are coordinating alternative travel plans, the long flight time has raised concerns among the players, and there is still uncertainty as to whether the match can be held as scheduled.

Image source: Internet