Argentina Defender Warns: "Nobody Will Be Ready" for Messi's Farewell

As Argentina prepares for their upcoming friendly against Angola, defender Nicolas Tagliafico has spoken candidly about the impending retirement of national team captain Lionel Messi. Tagliafico, who has been close to witnessing Messi's enduring greatness, warns that "nobody will be ready" when the Inter Miami star finally walks away from the game.

Messi's recent surprise visit to Barcelona's newly renovated Camp Nou has reignited speculation about a potential short-term return to his boyhood club. However, Tagliafico admits even the Argentina squad remains uncertain about Messi's future plans, with the 38-year-old's next move shrouded in uncertainty.

Despite their success under Lionel Scaloni, Tagliafico is urging calm around Argentina's 2026 World Cup ambitions. The veteran full-back downplays their tag as favorites, saying the team is "about a five" on a scale of 1 to 10 in terms of readiness. Tagliafico emphasizes the need to take it "one step at a time" as Argentina looks to defend their crown.