Cuti Romero Picks Messi's No. 10 Heir for Argentina
Cristian Romero revealed who he believes should inherit Lionel Messi's iconic No. 10 jersey for the Argentina National Team.
Some jerseys carry more weight than others, but few have as much history as Argentina's iconic No. 10 shirt. Following Lionel Messi's retirement, the Argentina National Team is entering a new era, and one of the biggest questions is who will have the privilege of wearing the number made legendary by its greatest star.
Cristian Romero, Argentina's new captain, has a clear candidate: Julián Álvarez.
During an interview with Los Edul, the Atlético de Madrid defender explained that Álvarez possesses the qualities needed to take on such a responsibility.
"I would give it to Julián. He's humble, family-oriented, a good guy, and he has the ability. Those are important qualities for wearing the No. 10," he said.
However, Romero acknowledged that his teammate would rather keep the number he has worn in recent years.
Cuti Romero Defends Lionel Messi's Legacy
The defender also discussed the void Messi leaves behind, both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
"There will never be another Leo, neither as captain nor as a No. 10," he said.
For Romero, the key to this new chapter will be preserving the unity that turned Argentina into one of the strongest national teams in world football.
"We don't have a Leo, but we have a family," he explained.
Romero also questioned the current criteria for the Ballon d'Or, suggesting that the award has become increasingly influenced by media attention.
"Today, the Ballon d'Or is a bit about marketing. I've never seen anyone do what Leo did," he said.
When asked who he would choose as the winner, his answer was emphatic: "Messi. Even if it's not possible, I'd give it to Messi."
Nico Paz: One of Argentina's Brightest Prospects
Another name discussed during the interview was Nico Paz, one of the players expected to play an important role in Argentina's future.
Romero insisted that the midfielder's talent comes as no surprise to those who have shared international training camps with him.
"He has enormous ability. How far he goes will depend on him, but he has the talent. He's a very complete player," he said.
The defender believes Paz has everything needed to become an important figure, although his development will depend on the decisions he makes throughout his career.
Argentina Begin a New Era Without Messi
Lionel Messi's retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era for Argentine football.
Now, Cristian Romero will be responsible for leading a generation featuring players such as Julián Álvarez, Nico Paz, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister.
The challenge will be maintaining Argentina's international success without the player who forever changed the country's recent football history.
And although no final decision has been made regarding who will wear the No. 10 jersey, the new captain has made his position clear: Julián Álvarez has what it takes to inherit that legacy.
Key Takeaways From Cuti Romero's Comments
- Cristian Romero named Julián Álvarez as the ideal player to inherit Lionel Messi's iconic No. 10 jersey.
- The defender insisted that nobody can replace Messi and questioned the current criteria for the Ballon d'Or.
- Romero praised Nico Paz's talent and highlighted the team's unity as the greatest strength of the new Argentina.
Julián Alvarez
Argentina
