Argentina journalist and pundit, Federico Bueno has revealed the player set to take over Lionel Messi’s number 10 shirt following the retirement of the Inter Miami forward from international football.
Messi, a Barcelona legend, announced on 31 August that he was retiring from international football, ending an exceptional career spanning more than 20 years.
The Inter Miami forward will formally bid farewell to Argentine supporters on 6 October during a friendly match against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Following the occasion, Argentina intended to permanently retire the prestigious number 10 jersey, but that was not possible due to FIFA rules.
ESPN Argentina correspondent, Federico Bueno reports that Argentina has internally established who will wear the iconic shirt.
He said: “Should Scaloni renew his contract as Argentina manager, then Nico Paz will become the new number 10. This determination has been made internally.”
The 22-year-old Paz is recognised as one of the most exceptional attacking midfielders in the world.
The former Real Madrid midfielder completed a permanent €60 million transfer to Como last summer and has an €80 million buy-back clause in his contract.
Retirement: Player to wear Messi’s No.10 jersey for Argentina named