Following Argentina’s 0-1 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup, captain Lionel Messi did not return to Buenos Aires with the national team on Monday, July 20. According to CNN Indonesia, the 39-year-old traveled directly from New York to Miami before planning a return to his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, to spend time with his family.
The Post-World Cup Logistics for the Albiceleste
The Argentine squad arrived at Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires on Monday, July 20, at 6:00 p.m. local time. However, the team did not return as a full unit. Reports from CNN Indonesia confirm that several players, including Rodrigo De Paul, Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Geronimo Rulli, Giuliano Simeone, Nico Paz, and Juan Musso, opted not to return to Argentina immediately following the tournament.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni and AFA President Claudio Tapia were among those who returned to the country. Other players, including Nicolas Otamendi, Lautaro Martinez, and Emiliano Martinez, also arrived in Buenos Aires with the main delegation.
Did you know?
Despite the 2026 World Cup final, the result left Argentina with three stars on their jersey, as the team failed to add a fourth title after the defeat to Spain.
Messi’s Immediate Future in Major League Soccer
Lionel Messi’s focus is shifting back to club football. According to La Nacion, Messi is scheduled to fly to his hometown of Rosario via private jet on Tuesday, July 21. Following a brief period of rest with his family in Funes, Santa Fe, he will return to Inter Miami to resume his commitments in Major League Soccer (MLS).
The MLS season is set to resume on July 23 and 24. Inter Miami’s first match following the international break is against the Chicago Fire.
Comparative Analysis: Tournament Impact on Club Availability
| Return Status | Personnel |
|---|---|
| Returned to Buenos Aires | Lionel Scaloni, Claudio Tapia, Nicolas Otamendi, Lautaro Martinez, Emiliano Martinez. |
| Remained Abroad | Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Geronimo Rulli, Giuliano Simeone, Nico Paz, Juan Musso. |
Keep an eye on club injury reports following major summer tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Lionel Messi not return to Argentina with the rest of the team?
Messi flew from New York to Miami following the World Cup final. He plans to take a short break in his hometown of Rosario before returning to Inter Miami for the resumption of the MLS season.
When does Inter Miami play next?
Inter Miami is scheduled to play the Chicago Fire in their first match following the tournament break, with the league season resuming on July 23 and 24.
Who scored the winning goal in the 2026 World Cup final?
Ferran Torres scored the lone goal for Spain in the 106th minute of the match, held at the stadium in New York, New Jersey.
Have thoughts on the 2026 World Cup outcome or the impact of the condensed schedule on club football? Share your perspective in the comments section below.
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