Lionel Messi reported in Argentina squad for Benin farewell friendly

Lionel Messi has been included in the Argentina squad for an upcoming friendly against Benin in October, according to media reports. The fixture in Buenos Aires is scheduled to serve as a farewell appearance for the forward following his retirement from international football.

Reports from BBC Sport and The Guardian indicate that the match will give the player an opportunity to make a final appearance for his national team on home soil. The Argentinian football association (AFA) has extended an invitation to Messi to take part in the event.

Planned match in Buenos Aires

According to details reported by The Guardian, the AFA president invited Messi to join the national side for the friendly to experience what was described as a deserved farewell. The game against Benin is set to take place in October in the Argentinian capital.

BBC Sport also reported Messi's inclusion in the squad, confirming that the fixture is intended to mark the end of his international career with Argentina. Further details surrounding the scheduling and match arrangements have yet to be formally published across official national team channels.

International farewell event

While the call-up has been widely covered by English media outlets, specific logistical details regarding player availability and squad preparations remain unconfirmed beyond the initial reports.