Argentina Returns Home Without Messi After World Cup 2026 Final Loss to Spain

Why this matters: The response to Argentina's runner-up finish reveals a shifting cultural relationship between the team and its supporters — moving beyond results-focused fandom toward gratitude for the journey and the unity the team brings to the nation.

The Aftermath of a Grueling Final

Spain claimed its second World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, courtesy of a Ferran Torres goal in extra time. Argentina played most of the match with 10 men after Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card, and goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez delivered an extraordinary performance with 11 saves to keep the team in contention.

Who Traveled Home — and Who Didn't

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed that several players would not return with the delegation. Besides Messi, those who did not travel to Buenos Aires included Gerónimo Rulli, Nicolás Paz, Marcos Senesi, Facundo Medina, Valentín Barco, Nicolás González, José Manuel López, and Juan Musso — most heading directly to their club destinations or for rest periods.

Players who did return aboard the team flight included Dibu Martínez, Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Lisandro Martínez, Cuti Romero, Lautaro Martínez, Nahuel Molina, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Nicolás Tagliafico, Gonzalo Montiel, Giovani Lo Celso, Exequiel Palacios, Giuliano Simeone, and Nicolás Otamendi, alongside the coaching staff.

The Power of Gratitude Over Victory

What made the reception remarkable was the tone. Argentina's World Cup triumph in Qatar 2022 triggered massive street celebrations. Four years later, despite finishing as runners-up, the scenes at the Obelisco in Buenos Aires and along the team's route were similarly electric — spontaneous dancing, improvised DJ sets, and fireworks.

This reaction reflects a broader trend: Argentine fans have developed a deep emotional bond with this squad that transcends match outcomes. As one fan told reporters, *"This team united all of us. We will always be there for them whether it rains or they lose."*

Spain's Celebration in Madrid

Meanwhile, Spain held its own massive celebration, with an estimated 2 million fans filling the streets of Madrid. The Spanish team was received by King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez before embarking on a bus parade through the capital — a stark contrast but a reminder of how football unites nations in victory and defeat alike.

Why didn't Lionel Messi return to Argentina with the rest of the team?

Messi flew to Miami with Rodrigo De Paul instead of returning to Buenos Aires. He is expected to take a private flight to Rosario in the coming days to spend time with his family in Funes. De Paul needed to rest before rejoining Inter Miami for the upcoming MLS matches.

Is Lionel Scaloni leaving his position as Argentina's head coach?

Scaloni expressed uncertainty about his future during the post-match press conference, stating he needs time to reflect. He said he is grateful to AFA President Claudio Tapia for the opportunity but is unsure if he can replicate such a successful cycle.

Was there a national holiday declared for the team's return?

Initially, President Javier Milei announced a national holiday, but the government later reversed the decision, stating the holiday would only be declared based on what the players and coaching staff decide regarding a celebration date.

How did fans react to the loss compared to the 2022 World Cup win?

Fans showed overwhelming support despite the loss. Thousands gathered at Ezeiza airport and the Obelisco, celebrating the team's journey with fireworks, songs, and flags. The tone emphasized gratitude rather than disappointment.

Do you think Argentina's reception after a loss signals a new era in how fans support their national team? Does the result tarnish the legacy of the 2022 champions, or does reaching back-to-back World Cup finals cement this squad as one of the greatest generations in football history?

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