Angel Di Maria Backs Cristian Romero as Argentina's New Captain Ahead of Messi’s Farewell

Angel Di Maria Supports Cristian Romero to Lead Argentina After Messi's Departure

Angel Di Maria has publicly supported Cristian Romero stepping up as the next permanent captain of Argentina. This leadership shift comes as Lionel Messi prepares to play his final international match against Benin on October 6, marking the end of an era and the start of a fresh chapter under coach Lionel Scaloni.

Scaloni Names Romero as New Albiceleste Captain

Lionel Scaloni officially confirmed that 28-year-old Atletico Madrid centre-back Cristian Romero will take over the captaincy once Messi retires from international football. Previously, Romero was third in line behind Messi and Nicolas Otamendi within the team’s leadership group. He has already experienced leading the team, wearing the captain’s armband in matches against Chile, Venezuela, and Mauritania when senior players were unavailable.

Di Maria Praises Romero’s Leadership Qualities

During a SportsCenter interview, Di Maria expressed strong support for Romero’s appointment, calling it a well-deserved decision by Scaloni and the coaching staff. He said:

"He deserves it. I think it’s a great choice by Scaloni and the coaching staff. He deserves it because he’s a great guy. He has a great temperament to carry the armband and I’m sure he’ll do a great job."

Di Maria also urged fans to keep backing the national team, confident the squad will continue to deliver exciting performances.

Scaloni Defines Clear Leadership Roles in Dressing Room

Scaloni acted quickly to appoint Romero to maintain a smooth leadership transition and preserve the team’s winning spirit. Speaking to TyC Sports about the captaincy hierarchy before upcoming fixtures, Scaloni explained:

• Captain: Cristian "Cuti" Romero
• Vice-captains: Emiliano Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul (absent for next two games), Lautaro Martinez

Scaloni stressed that Romero is the right fit to lead the team forward.

Argentina Prepares for Messi’s Farewell and New Leadership Era

The Albiceleste face Bolivia and Burkina Faso before Messi’s emotional farewell match against Benin. The game versus Benin will be the official moment for Romero to inherit on-pitch leadership duties. This test demands that Romero maintain high standards and unite the squad without the iconic Messi alongside him.