Cristian Romero becomes the new captain of the Argentina national soccer team
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 12:58 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026
Following the retirement of Lionel Messi and Nicolás Otamendi from international competition after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Argentina national team has appointed Cristian Romero as its new captain. Coach Lionel Scaloni selected the 28-year-old center-back to lead the squad, choosing him over other senior candidates including Emiliano Martínez and Nicolás Tagliafico. Romero has previously worn the captain’s armband in three matches and has made 58 international appearances. His appointment addresses the leadership transition required within the group after the departure of key veterans. The decision was confirmed following the conclusion of Argentina’s successful campaign in the 2026 tournament hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the USA. Romero remains currently active with his club team in the United Kingdom.
- •Cristian Romero is the new captain of the Argentina national team.
- •Lionel Messi and Nicolás Otamendi retired from international soccer following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- •Coach Lionel Scaloni prioritized Romero over other veterans like Emiliano Martínez and Nicolás Tagliafico.
- •Romero has earned 58 international caps and served as captain in three previous matches.
- •The 28-year-old plays for a club team based in North London.
- 12:58 PMYahoo Sports — World cup news: Argentina’s new captain decided following Lionel Messi’s retirement
"A few weeks ago, following a successful 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international soccer . Messi’s retirement was also followed by his teammate and another senior player, Nicolás Otamendi. While Messi left behind a closely knit and well-bonded Argentina, the squad lacked Messi’s depth and leadership. […] The post World cup news: Argentina’s new captain decided following Lionel Messi’s retirement appeared first on ClutchPoints.
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