FIFA Rules Prevent Argentina From Retiring Lionel Messi's No. 10 Shirt

Lionel Messi's international career is approaching its final chapter, but Argentina's iconic No. 10 shirt will continue to live on after his departure.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) reportedly considered retiring the legendary shirt permanently as a tribute to Messi and his extraordinary contribution to the national team. However, FIFA regulations prevent Argentina from removing the number entirely from its squad.

Messi has worn Argentina's No. 10 shirt since 2009, building one of the greatest international careers in football history. During his time with the national team, he helped Argentina win the World Cup and two Copa America titles.

The 39-year-old is set to play his final international match for Argentina against Benin at the historic Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, according to the information provided.

AFA president Claudio Tapia had reportedly wanted to retire the No. 10 shirt so that no future Argentina player would wear the number associated so closely with Messi. French outlet Foot Mercato, cited by Goal.com, reported on the proposed plan.

FIFA's regulations, however, make such a move impossible in major international competitions.

For tournaments such as the World Cup and Copa America, participating teams are required to assign shirt numbers from 1 through 26 to their squad. That means Argentina cannot permanently remove the No. 10 shirt or leave it unused during an official competition.

There may be more flexibility in certain friendly matches, but in official international tournaments, the No. 10 must be assigned to a player.

That means Messi's departure will not mark the end of Argentina's famous No. 10 shirt. At the 2030 World Cup or a future Copa America, another Argentine star is expected to inherit the number and begin a new chapter in its long history.