With Lionel Messi retiring, what comes after the GOAT for Argentina?

Lionel Messi will no longer suit up for Argentina.

His career was filled with triumphant moments, and the 2022 World Cup victory – plus two Copa América titles – solidified his standing as an eternal icon in Argentina.

Even at 39, he was the catalyst for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, seeming to will the team all the way to the final. In the end, it wasn't enough. Messi needed more help, and it wasn't there.

That could mean a frightening future for the Albiceleste without their biggest star, but there are plenty of reasons to believe Argentina will still compete on the global stage even without Messi.

The legend himself said in his goodbye message that there are "really great guys are coming who deserve to be there." Yet, there are still big questions about the next generation.

There is no one like Messi. That much is clear. But does Argentina have a player who can do some of the things Messi did for the national team.

It's a lot to put on a 21-year-old kid to be the next Messi, but Nico Paz is a left-footed attacker who loves to create for others and also can score…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/