Argentina interim coach Lionel Scaloni has opted against handing Lionel Messi‘s number 10 to anyone in the team, and he has made the right decision.
The Barcelona captain has decided to take some time off of the national team duties due to constant set-backs, which means the legendary number 10 will remain vacant for Argentina’s friendlies this month.
Although it might not matter if Argentina chooses to actually hand the shirt with 10 to another star, but out of respect, and perhaps, the kind of pressure the number brings, it is most suitable that it remains untouched for the time being.
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There are reasons for it too. For example, it would be unfair for anyone else to wear the number 10 given the kind of responsibility attached to it. Plus, it might stir comparisons between Messi and the number 10 recipient, which definitely do not help the latter’s cause, whoever it might be.
Moreover, Lionel Messi is a giant-figure. To fill his boots is one thing, but to replicate what he does on the pitch is not anyone’s cup of tea. Therefore, he deserves to have his jersey untouched for as long as he does not opt to completely shut the doors to international football.
Coach Scolani has said it out loud and clear that he has talked to the little Argentine and he will see whether he decides to return for the next spell of international friendlies. However, the main focus for Scolani right now is the team he has, and to pull Argentina out of crisis.
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There is a chance that Messi might change his mind and take charge of Argentina once again, and there’s still light at the end of the tunnel. But it’s pretty dim.