‘One last photo’: Agustin Giay’s emotional plan for Messi farewell

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Agencies

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Lionel Messi's final Argentina appearance is now firmly on the horizon, with his teammates already discussing the emotional farewell ahead. Scaloni's squad has begun arriving for the international break, bringing the focus onto the captain's last moments with the national team.

Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for the October 6 friendly against Benin at the Monumental Stadium, a game that is set to become his farewell appearance for the Albiceleste.

And for Agustín Giay, the occasion could produce one final unforgettable memory.

The Palmeiras defender admitted he would love to get one last photograph with Messi if the opportunity presents itself. "I don't like to bother him, but if the opportunity arises, I'm going to ask him for one last photo," Giay said.

The 22-year-old also admitted that the moment will inevitably be emotional. "It's a little sad, but obviously we're going to enjoy it a lot."

Giay is one of the younger faces involved as Argentina begins to look towards life beyond its legendary captain.

Valentin Barco was among the first players to arrive and admitted that Messi's departure would leave a gap that cannot simply be filled. "We are all very excited and hope to live up to expectations for his farewell," Barco told ESPN. "Nobody can imagine a national team without him; he will leave a huge void, impossible to fill."

The changing of the guard can also be seen in Argentina's right-back options.

With Nahuel Molina suspended, Scaloni has turned to Giay and Juan Foyth, giving the Palmeiras youngster another chance to establish himself at senior international level.

Giay, a product of the San Lorenzo academy, had previously been involved in Argentina's World Cup preparations and is now being given another opportunity to push his way into Scaloni's plans.

But while the youngsters look towards the future, some of Argentina's established stars are preparing to say goodbye to the player who has shared so much of their journey.

Nicolás Tagliafico acknowledged that Argentina must now accept the reality of Messi's departure.

"We have to accept it, we have to work hard for what's to come, to keep growing as a national team," he said. "Twenty years have passed with the best player. It's going to be tough, but we have to accept it."

Tagliafico also hinted that his own international career is approaching its final stage. "I'm in the final stage, trying to enjoy it as much as possible," he added.

Facundo Medina was visibly emotional when discussing Messi and the impact he has had on the national team. "I'm sad, he gave us so much joy, he gave us everything," Medina said.

"He's a human being and we have to respect his decision. We have to say goodbye to him in the best way possible and let him and his family enjoy it. He's an example for everyone; we have to learn from his greatness."

Exequiel Palacios echoed those sentiments, describing Messi as irreplaceable. "Leo is going to leave a huge void; he's our captain, the best in the world," he said. "We're going to enjoy this week to say goodbye to him."