The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has been working behind the scenes to give Lionel Messi a proper send-off after his recent announcement that he would step away from international football. The plan, which involves two tribute matches on home soil, was meant to let fans thank the captain for everything he has given to the national team. But the initial reaction from supporters has been anything but grateful.
According to early reports, the AFA has selected two of the country's most iconic venues: the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires and the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba. The choice of stadiums has been widely praised—fans are eager to fill those stands one more time. However, the proposed opponents have sparked a wave of criticism that threatens to overshadow the entire tribute.
Fans demand worthy rivals for a legend
The federation's idea was to bring in Burkina Faso and Benin as friendly opposition. But Argentine supporters have reacted with disbelief and frustration, arguing that these teams simply do not measure up to the occasion. For a player who has defined an era of football, facing lower-ranked squads feels like a letdown, not a celebration.
Social media has been flooded with comments from fans who describe the plan as disrespectful to Messi's global stature. Many are calling on the AFA to instead arrange matches against traditional powerhouses—Brazil, Germany, or even Spain—teams that have been part of Argentina's most memorable rivalries. As one fan put it, "You don't say goodbye to Maradona by playing a friendly against a team that's never been to a World Cup."
The criticism goes beyond just the choice of opponents. Some supporters accuse the federation of prioritizing financial convenience over historical significance. Organizing matches against lower-ranked teams is cheaper and easier, but it lacks the emotional weight that a farewell of this magnitude demands. A growing number of fans are even urging Messi to decline the offer unless the AFA secures elite opposition.
This isn't the first time the AFA has faced backlash over its handling of Messi's legacy. The debate over who can possibly fill Messi's shoes has been a recurring theme since his international retirement was announced. And with Messi's exit already shaking the national team, the federation's next move will be closely watched.
What's next for the tribute?
As of now, Messi has not publicly confirmed whether he will accept the AFA's proposal. The decision is likely to be influenced by the public's reaction, given how carefully he has managed his career milestones and his connection with the fans. The AFA may be forced to reconsider its schedule and seek out higher-profile opponents, but time is running out.
For Argentine supporters, the message is clear: Messi deserves a grand stage and a fitting rival for his final bow. Anything less would be an insult to the greatest player in the history of the sport. The federation has a chance to get this right, but it will need to listen to the people who have cheered for Messi from the terraces of Rosario to the streets of Buenos Aires.
Meanwhile, Messi's future beyond the national team remains a topic of speculation. His move to buy CD Eldense has signaled his post-playing ambitions, and his training sessions with former teammates continue to impress. But for now, all eyes are on the AFA to deliver a farewell that honors the legend.
