Former MLS Star Receives Lionel Messi's Iconic No. 10 Jersey in Argentina Honor

Ex-Atlanta United standout Thiago Almada is set to wear Lionel Messi's legendary number 10 jersey in Argentina's upcoming match against Ecuador.

Thursday evening in Buenos Aires was filled with emotion as Messi took part in his last competitive home game for Argentina. The eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient scored twice in La Albiceleste's commanding 3–0 win over Venezuela, achieving the farewell he had "always envisioned" in his homeland.

This fixture also marked Messi's final World Cup Qualifying appearance; the 38-year-old superstar did not travel with Argentina to Ecuador, making his iconic No. 10 jersey available.

Per ESPN reports, Lionel Scaloni is bestowing this privilege upon Almada. The 24-year-old previously sported number 16 in the Venezuela encounter, but will now temporarily take over Argentina's prestigious No. 10 from one of football's all-time greats.

Almada is no stranger to wearing the number 10 for Argentina. The attacking player donned this jersey number while representing La Albiceleste's U-23 team during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

However, this marks a historic milestone for Almada at the senior level. The Atlético Madrid player will face significant pressure to honor the tradition and expectations associated with this number, despite Argentina having already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Almada enters La Albiceleste's encounter with Ecuador having earned only 11 senior caps for his country. However, in his most recent three national team appearances, the attacker contributed one goal and provided two assists.

Naturally, Messi will reclaim the number 10 when he returns to Argentina duty. While the Barcelona icon may have said goodbye to competitive matches on Argentine soil, he remains the captain of the national squad aiming for consecutive World Cup championships.