Argentina legend Ángel Di María has confirmed that he will be present at Lionel Messi’s farewell match for the national team, set to take place on October 6 at Buenos Aires’ iconic Monumental Stadium.
Messi is expected to make his final appearance in the famous sky-blue and white jersey when Argentina face Benin in an international friendly. The match is being organized as a special tribute to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, allowing fans to bid farewell to one of the greatest players in football history on home soil.
Speaking to reporters after Rosario Central’s victory over Argentinos Juniors in the Clausura tournament, Di María said he plans to remain in Buenos Aires following Racing Club’s match against Banfield on October 5 so he can attend the occasion.
“I have to go to the stadium, don’t I? I have to be there and see it. We play Banfield on the 5th, so I’ll probably stay there. It’s on my way, and I’ll definitely be there,” Di María said.
The former Argentine winger also reflected on the significance of Messi’s departure from international football.
“A team without Leo after so many years—it will be difficult, won’t it? Especially after everything he has given to Argentina and to the whole world. We will enjoy that final day.”
Messi is expected to feature only in the match against Benin during Argentina’s three-game international series. Long-time teammates including Rodrigo De Paul, Nicolás Otamendi and Giovani Lo Celso are also expected to take part in the farewell event.
Members of Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, along with their families, have reportedly been invited to attend the match from the stands, turning the occasion into a celebration of both Messi’s extraordinary career and one of the most successful eras in Argentine football history.
