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Lionel Messi finished his Argentina career with a goal and two assists in a 3-0 match against Benin. We explore his departure through the lens of the pivotal role played by Premier League stars in the 'Albiceleste's' triumphs.

In Buenos Aires, the greatest chapter of international football has officially closed. Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentina national team, played his final match wearing the national colours, bringing a close to a 21-year career with the 'Albiceleste'.

Though the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner never graced the foggy stadiums of England, the triumphant end to his international career is inextricably linked with the Premier League. It was the stars from English clubs who formed the impenetrable backbone that first led Messi to World Cup glory and subsequently ensured a suave and serene exit.

Farewell spectacle against Benin: a penalty goal and two assists

The 39-year-old forward's final act was a friendly match against Benin at the packed Estadio Monumental. The encounter ended in a resounding 3-0 victory for the hosts, with Messi playing a pivotal role in all three goals:

  1. 48th minute: Nicolas Otamendi opened the scoring following a precise free-kick delivery from Messi.
  2. 61st minute: Nico Paz doubled Argentina's lead, tapping home yet another sublime assist from the veteran.
  3. 71st minute: Messi himself coolly converted a penalty, sealing the comfortable win.

This goal marked Lionel's 125th in 207 appearances for his country. As the final whistle blew, it was drowned out by the cheers of a 100,000-strong crowd and a magnificent drone light show, symbolising the captain's departure.

The English foundation of a great Argentine era

For observers of British football, this retirement holds great significance. Traditionally, South Americans and English football giants have existed in parallel universes; however, the recent renaissance of Lionel Scaloni's squad has been built entirely on players from the Premier League.

  • The engine of Chelsea and Liverpool: Messi's transformation from a lone saviour to a relaxed free artist was enabled by a midfield consisting of Premier League talent. Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea and Alexis Mac Allister from Liverpool took on immense responsibility in defensive duties and ball progression, covering spaces behind the legendary skipper.
  • Reliability from the North-West: Guarding the last line was Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez, while Cristian Romero from Tottenham ensured order at the back. Without the toughness and mental resilience of these Premier League defenders, Argentina would not have clinched either the World Cup gold or two consecutive Copa America titles.
  • A new generation in attack: As Messi concludes his international journey, a fresh batch of Argentines is ready to take charge, from Julian Alvarez and Alejandro Garnacho to young talents emerging in England.

Messi's legacy against Premier League clubs

The paradox of Messi lies in the fact that, despite never playing in England’s top flight, he remained the most dreaded nightmare for Premier League teams. Over the years with Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League, he netted 27 goals against teams from England’s top six—more than any non-English player in European competition history. Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Chelsea all suffered at the hands of his free-kicks and solo runs.

Now, this era comes to a close. Lionel Messi will focus solely on club commitments in the USA, while the flagship role in the Argentina national team firmly passes to those who battle it out weekly on the pitches of the Premier League.