As Lionel Messi prepares for his final appearance for Argentina, former international teammate Javier Pastore has shared insight into the evolution of the captain’s leadership style. The national team is set to provide a fitting send-off for their talisman on October 6, when they host Benin in an international friendly in Buenos Aires.
Reflecting on their time together, Pastore noted that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s approach to leadership underwent a significant transformation over his two-decade tenure. Pastore remarked, “Early on, he led purely through his actions,” highlighting how the forward initially influenced the squad by his performance rather than his voice. The Argentine is now a football agent but fondly remembers the time he shared with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
However, as Messi matured, he became increasingly vocal within the dressing room. According to the former Paris Saint-Germain star, the captain eventually began using his words to inspire confidence and offer vital support to his teammates, marking a shift from silent leadership to a more communicative role.
Messi’s international career, which began in 2005, has been defined by remarkable highs, most notably leading Argentina to FIFA World Cup glory in 2022. While he nearly achieved repeat success this summer, the team ultimately fell to Spain. Statistically, he remains the nation’s all-time top scorer, having recorded 125 goals in 207 appearances for La Albiceleste. Since making his debut for the national team back in 2005, Lionel Messi has enjoyed an unforgettable run with his nation. Lionel Messi nearly did it again in 2026 before losing to Spain during this summer’s tournament.
The atmosphere surrounding this farewell is deeply personal. Following the passing of his father, Jorge, in August, Messi made the decision to retire from national team duty. Ahead of the upcoming fixtures, Messi and his family have already arrived in Rosario via private jet from Miami.
While Argentina is scheduled to face Burkina Faso in a preceding friendly, Messi will not participate in that match. His final appearance is reserved for the subsequent clash against Benin, concluding an unforgettable journey for the legendary forward.
