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Lionel Messi has joined the Argentina national team camp ahead of what is expected to be his final international appearance for the world champions.
The Argentina captain arrived at the Albiceleste’s training base in Ezeiza on Sunday, October 4, with the Argentine Football Association welcoming the Inter Miami forward with a message celebrating his return.
Messi was also pictured speaking with AFA president Claudio Tapia as preparations began for his farewell.
“Welcome, Captain! The emotion is total,” the AFA said in a social media post accompanying images of Messi at the camp.
Messi had been in Argentina for several days but chose to spend time with his family in Rosario before joining up with the national team.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni had given the 39-year-old the freedom to decide when he wanted to report for duty, with Messi arriving shortly before Sunday's training session.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is now preparing for what could be the final chapter of an extraordinary international career.
Messi has represented Argentina since making his senior debut on August 16, 2005, and has gone on to make 207 appearances for his country, scoring 125 goals and providing 68 assists.
Lionel Messi's Argentina journey
His international career has also brought the ultimate prizes.
Messi led Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and has won two Copa America titles with the national team. Overall, he has been involved in 193 goals for Argentina.
Messi did not feature in Argentina's recent matches against Bolivia in Cordoba or Burkina Faso. However, he is expected to play against Benin on October 6 in Argentina's third and final friendly of the international window.
After more than 200 appearances, three major international titles and countless defining moments, Argentina is preparing to say goodbye to its captain and greatest footballing icon.
