Argentina's return home after their heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final is expected to be a low-key affair, with several key figures—including captain Lionel Messi—not travelling back with the squad.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed that some members of the squad would fly directly from the United States to other destinations to either rejoin their clubs or begin their post-tournament breaks.
Although no names were officially announced, Argentine media reports indicate that Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and head coach Lionel Scaloni are all expected to miss the flight to Buenos Aires.
The returning players are scheduled to arrive in Buenos Aires at approximately 6:30pm local time, according to Aerolineas Argentinas.
Unlike the unforgettable celebrations following Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph, there will be no official reception or media event awaiting the squad upon arrival.
Despite the disappointment of falling short in the final, thousands of supporters gathered at Buenos Aires' iconic Obelisk on Sunday night to thank the team for another memorable tournament.
Fans celebrated with fireworks, chants and displays of appreciation before isolated clashes erupted later in the evening. Police used water cannons, tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, with 15 people detained, according to police sources.
Many supporters have nevertheless vowed to welcome the returning players when they arrive home.
Following Argentina's defeat, President Javier Milei announced that a future date, to be agreed upon with the national team, would be declared a public holiday to honour the players' achievements during the tournament.
No further details have yet been confirmed.
Argentina's subdued return stands in sharp contrast to the scenes that followed their World Cup triumph in Qatar four years ago.
In 2022, millions of fans lined a 30-kilometre parade route through Buenos Aires to celebrate the Albiceleste's historic victory. The overwhelming crowds eventually forced officials to abandon the open-top bus parade due to security concerns, with several players completing the celebrations via helicopter instead.
While this year's journey home lacks the same festive atmosphere, Argentina's supporters have continued to show their appreciation after another impressive World Cup campaign that ended just one step short of retaining their crown.
