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Messi to Don No. 10 for Record Sixth World Cup
3 Jun
Summary
- Lionel Messi will wear Argentina's iconic No. 10 jersey.
- This marks his historic sixth World Cup appearance.
- He aims to win the tournament in what may be his last.
Lionel Messi will continue his illustrious international career by wearing Argentina's famed No. 10 jersey at the upcoming 2026 World Cup. This appearance will mark his sixth World Cup, placing him among an elite group of players achieving this milestone. Messi, an Inter Miami superstar, is aiming to conclude his World Cup journey with a championship title.
The decision to wear the No. 10 is deeply significant, as Messi has worn it for Argentina for 18 years. He adopted the number in 2008, shortly after Diego Maradona took over as national team manager. This choice honors Maradona's legacy and Messi's profound admiration for the Argentinian football icon.
Messi's association with the No. 10 began at Barcelona after Ronaldinho's departure. While he briefly wore No. 30 at Paris Saint-Germain due to Neymar occupying the No. 10, he reclaimed his preferred jersey upon joining Inter Miami. There is speculation that Argentina may retire the No. 10 jersey after Messi's final tournament.