‎Unforgettable! Martinez targets special send-off for Lionel Messi

‎Emiliano Martinez is determined to give Lionel Messi an unforgettable Argentina farewell despite lingering World Cup final heartbreak.

‎Messi will make his final appearance for Argentina on October 6 when they play Benin. It’s set to be an emotional day for the Argentines’ including Martinez who spent years playing alongside Messi.

‎With tributes already flowing in, Martinez admits he assumed his captain had already brought down the curtain on his storied international career.

Lionel Messi shakes hands with Emiliano Martinez #23 after the 0-1 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match against Spain (Photo by Maja Hitij – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

‎Discussing the farewell fixture before a passionate crowd in Buenos Aires via ESPN Argentina, Martinez revealed: “To be honest, I thought he had already retired… Having the chance to say goodbye here in Argentina is a dream for him, and we will try to make it a wonderful day for him.”

‎While Messi’s retirement from international duty calls for celebration, the 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain two months ago has not fully dissipated.

‎Acknowledging the persistent sting from that showpiece loss, Martinez confessed: “It’s nice to reach a final again, but unfortunately we couldn’t win it. That thorn will stick with me for a very long time.”

‎To properly honour Messi, the federation have formally invited the entire Qatar 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families to take part in the historic occasion from the stands.