Argentina: 'We'll have to do it' - Lionel Messi's replacement, Mastantuono speaks out

Franco Mastantuono, the prospective successor to Lionel Messi in the Argentina national team, expressed sadness over the football legend's departure. At 19, the Fiorentina forward is seen as an emerging talent who will need to step up following Messi's absence. He stated that the upcoming period would be emotionally challenging for the national team as they prepare to bid farewell to their captain. Argentina's next match is an international friendly against Bolivia on September 30, 2026.