Paulo Dybala explains reason for taking Lionel Messi’s shirt in Argentina’s World Cup qualifier
Argentina playmaker Paulo Dybala admitted his hesitation over wearing Lionel Messi’s number 10 shirt during Thursday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Chile.
The Argentine captain Messi missed the game against Venezuela due to an ankle injury that he picked up at the 2024 Copa America; Dybala got to wear the number when Argentina won 3-0.
Paulo Dybala Reflects on the Responsibility
In this particular interview, Dybala takes time to consider the role he has as a footballer in the community.
Dybala was only included in the last list of 23 players that were called to the team and was a substitute that replaced Liverpool’s Mac Allister in the 79th minute when Argentina was leading 1-0. Later, Julian Alvarez extended the lead, and Dybala added a third.
In an interview with TyC Sports, Dybala said, “I know it is not my shirt, it is Leo’s, but I tried to represent it in the best possible way.” He added.
In a previous report from Sportsbuddy, Lionel Messi declared his all-time sporting GOAT.
“He Is The Goat And I Want To Take A Picture With Him” Lionel Messi Puts An End To GOAT Debate
Scaloni Backs Dybala
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni expressed his satisfaction in Dybala for deserving to wear the No. 10 jersey, which was formerly associated with Diego Maradona and Messi.
Scaloni stated, “Paulo deserves it. He has the experience and talent to carry the number, and we shouldn’t put too much weight on it. It’s an honor.””
Dybala will vie to ensure the same result for Argentina in their next qualifier match against Colombia. Argentina sits top of the standings after winning six of the seven matches they have played.
