The Argentine players, including Lautaro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico, Facundo Medina, el Flaco López, and Agustín Giay, were visibly emotional as they arrived at the team's concentration camp. They were all aware of Messi's decision to retire and were eager to pay their respects.
Lautaro Martínez described Messi's retirement as a "triste noticia" (sad news), but also acknowledged the joy and memories they shared during his time with the team. Nicolás Tagliafico expressed his sadness, but also emphasized the importance of moving forward and working hard to continue growing as a team.
Facundo Medina was "un poco triste" (a bit sad) about Messi's retirement, but also praised the player's decision to retire and the opportunity to bid him farewell in the best possible way. el Flaco López described the moment as "triste y feliz a la vez" (sad and happy at the same time), acknowledging the historic significance of the event.
The team will face Bolivia in their first friendly match, which will have a reduced aforo (capacity) due to a sanción (sanction). Messi will only play in the last of the three friendlies.