Argentina: ‘We’ll have to do it’ – Lionel Messi’s replacement, Mastantuono speaks out

The prospective successor to Lionel Messi in the Argentina national team, Franco Mastantuono, has lamented the departure of the football legend from the Albiceleste.

The Fiorentina forward stated that seeing Argentina play without Lionel Messi would be a sorrowful experience.

Argentina are poised to begin an era without Messi for the first time since 2005, with Mastantuono anticipated to occupy the position vacated by the forward.

Mastantuono, 19, is regarded as one of the emerging talents expected to define Argentina’s next generation.

He acknowledged that the ensuing international break would constitute an emotionally charged period for the national team as they prepare to bid farewell to their captain.

“It’s difficult. After Leo, it’s very difficult for everyone because he’s our idol, not just in football. I think he’s an idol for the whole country, and it’s going to be sad without him, but we’re going to have to do it for Argentina and for him,” Mastantuono said, as quoted by Sportskeeda.

Currently contracted to Fiorentina, Mastantuono operates in the same position as Messi and will endeavour to establish himself in Lionel Scaloni’s squad following Messi’s departure.

Argentina’s next match is an international friendly against Bolivia on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.