Argentina is entering a new phase following Lionel Messi's departure, though he will return for a farewell game against Benin. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, alongside Nicolas Otamendi, leaves a significant void. Coach Lionel Scaloni, who led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup and two Copas America, has indicated he will extend his contract, providing stability. Scaloni has named a 35-man squad, using early fixtures like the one against Bolivia in Cordoba to assess younger talent. Key players Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso will only feature in the Benin match, while Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina are banned after the World Cup final against Spain. Como midfielder Nico Paz is identified as a potential successor to Messi, though expectations are tempered. Cristian Romero will captain Argentina against Bolivia, with Agustín Giay of Palmeiras expected to start. Bolivia, coached by Oscar Villegas, will face a challenging Argentina side.