According to AS, with Messi's retirement from the Argentine national team, Como player Nico Paz could be a candidate for Lionel Scaloni as he searches for a replacement in midfield.

Argentina is currently preparing for a friendly match against Benin. The South American nation is awaiting Messi's final departure from the Albiceleste. He will return to the Más Monumental stadium during the international break to play his last game for the country he led to two World Cup and Copa América titles. Messi's farewell as "number 10" has prompted Argentina to seek a new figure to become the team's creative core. Clearly, no one can truly replicate Messi's role and influence on the Argentine team, but Scaloni has gradually built a tactical framework that makes the impact of Messi's departure more manageable. Nico Paz is precisely the right candidate.

Nico Paz has earned acclaim for his performances at Como, which led to a 60 million Euro transfer that keeps him in Italy. He has also received positive reviews representing the Argentine national team. The Tenerife native remains humble and realistic about his role. Perhaps for this reason, one of the biggest achievements of his short career has been his inclusion in the 2026 World Cup squad. Although Nico Paz acknowledges that replacing Messi is "impossible," his playing style does evoke Messi's, and he could represent a new direction for the Argentine team's future. The two players' skill levels are, of course, incomparable, but it remains crucial for Argentina to develop new attacking options.

Messi's departure will be a significant blow to Argentina, and nothing can fill the void left by the captain. The exceptional balance this Argentine team has maintained in recent years may also diminish as a result. However, faced with the need to evolve tactically, Argentina has found in Paz another left-footed player who excels at controlling possession, actively dictating play, and linking with teammates. Nico Paz has already made 11 appearances for the national team, and it may be too early for him to wear the "number 10" shirt, but Argentina has an opportunity for a generational transition. While the two players differ in physical condition, playing style, and career trajectory, they share the same footballing philosophy.

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