The Heir to the Throne: Nico Paz Poised to Inherit Messi’s Iconic No. 10 Shirt
The landscape of Argentine football is undergoing a seismic shift. Following Lionel Messi’s emotional retirement from international duty—a decision confirmed in the wake of the 2026 World Cup final—the national team faces the daunting task of moving forward without its talisman. While the squad is filled with world-class talent, one question has dominated the conversation: Who will inherit the legendary No. 10 jersey?
According to recent reports, the Argentine Football Association has identified a successor. Rising star Nico Paz has been internally selected to take on the most famous shirt in world football, though his ascension is contingent upon a specific administrative milestone.
A Condition Tied to Scaloni’s Future
While the decision to crown the 21-year-old playmaker has been made behind closed doors, it remains tethered to the future of head coach Lionel Scaloni. Insider reports from ESPN Argentina suggest that the handover is part of a broader vision for the post-Messi era, but it is strictly conditional on Scaloni renewing his contract with the national team.
Scaloni, who masterminded Argentina’s 2022 World Cup glory, is expected to negotiate a new deal in the coming months. Should the tactician agree to extend his tenure, the plan to install Paz as the new No. 10 is set to be enacted. If the manager remains at the helm, Paz—who has previously worn the No. 18—will transition into the iconic number formerly worn by Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
Why Nico Paz?
The choice of Paz over more established stars like Enzo Fernández or Alexis Mac Allister highlights the immense faith the coaching staff has in his development. Born in Spain but firmly committed to his father’s homeland of Argentina, Paz’s trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric.
A product of the prestigious Real Madrid youth academy, Paz’s move to Italian side Como has been instrumental in his growth. Under the guidance of former Arsenal star Cesc Fàbregas, the attacking midfielder has blossomed into one of Europe’s most captivating young talents. With 77 appearances and 19 goals to his name at the club level, his vision, technical prowess, and maturity have made him the standout candidate to lead the next generation of La Albiceleste.
The Weight of History
Inheriting the No. 10 is an honor that carries the heavy burden of history. The shirt served as the canvas for Diego Maradona’s 1986 heroics and defined the unparalleled career of Lionel Messi, who hung up his boots after a glittering 207-cap career.
Messi’s departure following the heartbreak of the 2026 final marked the end of an era. In his farewell statement, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner spoke of “great young players coming up” who deserve their time in the spotlight.
While no player can truly replace the impact of Messi, the management clearly believes that Paz possesses the temperament and the talent to carry the torch forward. As Argentina prepares for a future without their greatest-ever icon, all eyes will be on whether Scaloni stays to guide the transition, and whether the young star from Como is ready to etch his name into the annals of Argentine football history.
