Argentina will take to the international stage without one of the most recognisable shirts in football, with Lionel Scaloni making a symbolic decision ahead of the November international break.

The national team are entering a new chapter following Lionel Messi's international retirement, but his famous number will not immediately be handed to another player.

According to TyC Sports, Argentina have decided that no member of the squad will wear the iconic No.10 shirt during their upcoming fixtures, while the coaching staff consider who should inherit it.

Lionel Messi's No.10 shirt to remain vacant for Argentina

Scaloni and his coaching staff have reportedly agreed to leave the shirt unused throughout the international window rather than rush into appointing a successor to the legendary forward.

The decision is a significant gesture towards Messi, who made the number synonymous with his time representing Argentina.

The 38-year-old played a central role in the country's success, captaining them to the 2022 World Cup and the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles.

However, the decision is only temporary, with Argentina still considering who will take on the responsibility of wearing the shirt in future fixtures.

Como's Nico Paz is among the names being discussed, alongside Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister. Youngster Franco Mastantuono is also viewed as a potential option for the future.

Who will inherit Argentina's iconic number?

The eventual decision will carry considerable significance given the history of the shirt.

Before Messi, the number was famously worn by Diego Maradona, making it one of the most symbolic in Argentine football.

Scaloni now faces the task of deciding who should take on that responsibility, with several talented players potentially in contention.

For the November international break, however, the number will remain untouched as Argentina prepare for life without their legendary captain.

The identity of Messi's successor remains undecided, but whoever eventually takes the shirt will inherit an enormous legacy.