The biggest question facing the Argentina national team after Lionel Messi’s retirement may now have an answer. Reports from ESPN Argentina say Como midfielder Nico Paz has emerged as Lionel Scaloni’s preferred choice to inherit the famous Argentina No. 10 shirt, although the plan depends on the coach renewing his contract.
The report has already divided supporters. For some, giving the shirt to a 21-year-old is a natural way to begin Argentina’s next era. For others, Messi’s No. 10 carries so much history that it should be left untouched.
Why Nico Paz Is Being Considered
Paz is not simply being chosen because he is young and talented. He has already established himself as an important part of Argentina’s next generation.
The Como playmaker has made 11 senior appearances for Argentina and wore No. 18 at the 2026 World Cup. At club level, he has also worn the No. 10 shirt, giving him some experience with the responsibility attached to the number.
His style also fits what Argentina could need after Messi. Paz offers close control, dribbling and creativity from attacking midfield, qualities that could allow him to operate between midfield and attack rather than simply trying to copy Messi’s role.
The No. 10 Is Bigger Than a Shirt
The real challenge is not finding someone capable of wearing the number. It is dealing with what the Messi No. 10 successor will represent.
Messi wore Argentina’s No. 10 for 172 matches over 17 years, making the shirt almost inseparable from his identity. During his reign, the number was sometimes left unassigned when he was unavailable.
That explains why alternatives such as Paulo Dybala, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister have been discussed, while some fans have argued that Argentina should retire the shirt entirely. Other reports have also listed players such as Thiago Almada and Julián Álvarez among possible candidates.
Scaloni’s Future Comes First
There is an important condition attached to the story. Lionel Scaloni must first renew his contract before the reported plan for Paz can become reality. His current deal runs through December 2026, making his future one of Argentina’s immediate questions after the World Cup.
If Scaloni stays, Paz could become the first major face of Argentina’s post-Messi generation. If the coach leaves, the new manager could make a completely different decision.
Either way, the debate shows how difficult Argentina’s transition will be. Replacing Messi on the pitch was always going to be difficult. Deciding who should carry his number may be almost as complicated.
