Argentina cancels November Asia tour amid post-Messi transition

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has canceled the Argentina national team's planned tour of Asia during the FIFA international window from November 9 to 17. This period will mark the first official window without Lionel Messi.

Coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to focus on squad renewal and evaluating players ahead of the 2027 cycle. Instead of Asia, the team is looking to negotiate friendly matches against South American opponents. Potential matchups include a game against Uruguay at the Estadio Único de La Plata or a rematch in Montevideo.

In a related discussion regarding the team's transition, coach Ricardo Gareca emphasized the importance of maintaining Scaloni's project. Gareca also addressed conspiracy theories regarding the team's performance in the World Cup final, dismissing such speculations and focusing instead on the physical and emotional toll of the tournament.