Ex-MLS star to take Lionel Messi's No.10 shirt for Argentina's final 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ecuador after talismanic captain granted rest

Lionel Messi will play no part in Argentina’s World Cup qualifier with Ecuador, meaning that his No.10 shirt will be passed to Thiago Almada.

  • All-time great handed well-earned break
  • Fellow winner stepping in
  • Qualification for 2026 finals safely secured

Ex-MLS star to take Lionel Messi's No.10 shirt for Argentina's final 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ecuador after talismanic captain granted restEx-MLS star to take Lionel Messi's No.10 shirt for Argentina's final 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ecuador after talismanic captain granted restEx-MLS star to take Lionel Messi's No.10 shirt for Argentina's final 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ecuador after talismanic captain granted rest

He has just 11 senior caps for his country, but did form part of their triumphant squad at Qatar 2022. Almada is trusted with providing the kind of creativity that ensures Messi is not missed.