Lionel Messi will sit out Argentina’s friendly against Bolivia in Cordoba on Wednesday, as the national team begins its farewell series for its greatest player. The match kicks off later today, with Messi being rested ahead of his final appearance.

The Argentine Football Association has decided to keep the 39-year-old fresh for the October 6 friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, which will be Messi’s 208th and final cap for Argentina. The association will also skip the number 10 shirt in the earlier friendlies as a tribute.

In Messi’s absence, coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to hand opportunities to younger players. According to ESPN Argentina, the rumoured eleven includes Nico Paz and Matias Soule alongside Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez.

Messi, who has 207 caps and 125 goals, announced his international retirement last month. The October 6 farewell will close a two-decade international career that delivered the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles.