Lionel Scaloni Confirms Cuti Romero as Argentina’s New Captain After Lionel Messi’s Retirement

Cristian Romero Named Argentina’s New Captain

The transition of the captaincy marks a defining moment for the reigning world champions as they step into a new competitive cycle. Scaloni revealed that the 28-year-old Tottenham Hotspur defender, who previously served as the squad’s third captain behind Messi and Nicolás Otamendi, was the natural choice to wear the historic armband.

“The captain is going to be Cuti,” Scaloni told reporters, according to source reporting. “He was already third captain after Leo and Ota. There is Emiliano (Martínez), who can also wear the armband. Rodrigo (De Paul), who is not going to be in these two matches, can also wear it, Lautaro can wear it. Cuti is the indicated one.”

Scaloni intends for the Córdoba native and former Belgrano product to act as a central pillar and mentor for the younger players entering the national team fold, maintaining the competitive identity forged during their recent tournament triumphs.

Reflecting on Lionel Messi and the No. 10 Legacy

Scaloni admitted that a decision regarding the shirt number has not yet been finalized, but his admiration for the outgoing legend remains absolute.

Reflecting on Messi’s impending testimonial match, Scaloni expressed a mixture of gratitude and melancholy. “Happy to be able to be part of that and to be able to enjoy that night. Pure melancholy. Maradona left, Leo is going to stop playing, and what is the problem? This will happen sometime, for sure,” the coach stated.

Scaloni also addressed speculation surrounding the 2026 Ballon d’Or, asserting that Messi remains the leading candidate to capture his ninth Golden Ball. “Of course, but I don’t think he’s very worried about that. Truly, I don’t think he cares much. While he is on a football pitch, it is difficult that he doesn’t deserve it. Besides, we aren’t the only ones saying it; the majority of people say it.”

The manager offered a poetic assessment of what it meant to direct the sport’s most celebrated player: “The World Cup was too emotional. Being able to train him for me is the maximum, it was a dream. I told him and I am going to tell him for life. There will be no one like him. It is very difficult for a player like that to emerge. Not only for what he is inside the pitch, but for everything he transmits outside, for everything he transmits to the people who work in the national team, the opponents, the rivals. It is something difficult to explain.”

Uncertainty Over Coaching Future and Local Reception

Beyond roster changes, Scaloni addressed ongoing speculation regarding his own contract and future with the Argentine Football Association (AFA), particularly following the conclusion of his current deal and the team’s defeat in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain. Assistant coach Walter Samuel is widely expected to step away to begin his own career as a primary manager.

Despite persistent rumors linking him to an exit, Scaloni downplayed the idea that his contractual status causes disruption within the dressing room. “I don’t think it’s very important for them. Logically, I imagine it’s more comfortable for a coach to stay who they’ve known for a long time, because everything creates uncertainty afterward. But I don’t think it’s important,” he explained, adding that his eventual departure will not alter the squad’s tactical development.

The coach also touched on lighter subjects, including the overwhelming public adoration he experienced in his hometown of Pujato following the 2026 World Cup. Bunkering down amidst adoring crowds left him with plenty of provisions, he joked: “My old man was going to be a little stressed. The truth is he was… I have food for six months.”

Argentina continues preparations for its upcoming fixtures, with training sessions underway ahead of their next test on the international calendar.