Nico Paz Emerges as Frontrunner to Inherit Lionel Messi's Number 10 for Argentina

As Lionel Messi prepares for his final chapter with the Argentina national team, head coach Lionel Scaloni faces the immense challenge of structuring a squad without the talismanic playmaker. The transition heralds a new era for the reigning world champions, requiring not only tactical restructuring but also the allocation of the iconic number 10 jersey famously worn by Diego Maradona and Messi. Amid this succession planning, young midfielder Nico Paz has emerged as the leading candidate to claim the historic shirt and role.

Paz, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife-born left-footer currently playing for Italian side Como, has become Scaloni's preferred tactical option to generate play from the right flank before drifting centrally into attacking spaces. Scaloni has signaled strong confidence in the 20-year-old talent, handing him starting roles in consecutive international friendlies against Bolivia and Burkina Faso—the national team's first fixtures contested without Messi's presence in the lineup.

The tactical blueprint aims to replicate the playmaking dynamics long dominated by Messi, though team officials recognize the psychological and sporting burden accompanying the legendary number. While River Plate prodigy Franco Mastantuono remains another promising alternative within Argentina's youth pipeline, team analysts report that Mastantuono currently trails Paz in the direct selection race for the central playmaker responsibilities.

Looking ahead, Scaloni must manage the delicate transition period as veteran legends step aside for Argentina's next generation. Observers will watch closely to see whether Scaloni integrates Paz alongside Messi in upcoming fixtures, including an upcoming exhibition against Benin, before fully handing over the playmaking reins and the iconic number 10 jersey ahead of future competitive tournaments.