Argentina’s No. 10 shirt is far more than a number. It carries the legacy of Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, making it one of the most iconic jerseys in world football.

With Messi no longer part of the Argentina national team, one major question remains: who will inherit the legendary No. 10?

Nico Paz has emerged as one of the leading names in the discussion. But Argentina’s new captain, Cristian Romero, has a different choice—Julián Álvarez.

Speaking on the Los Edul YouTube channel, Romero was asked who should inherit Messi’s famous shirt. He jokingly suggested putting the jersey aside and creating a mural for Messi at the Argentine Football Association. But acknowledging that was not possible, he named Álvarez as his preferred choice.

Álvarez Does Not Want the No. 10

There is an interesting twist to Romero’s choice.

The Argentina captain revealed that he has already spoken to Álvarez about taking the No. 10 shirt several times. However, the Atlético Madrid forward apparently prefers to continue wearing his current No. 9.

“I’ve told him many times, but he wants to keep his own,” Romero said.

So while Romero believes Álvarez has the qualities required to carry Argentina’s most iconic number, the striker himself does not appear eager to change his shirt number.

Why Does Romero Prefer Álvarez?

Álvarez is primarily known as a goalscorer. Wearing Argentina’s No. 9, he has established himself as an important attacking figure and has repeatedly shown his ability to deliver in major matches.

For Romero, however, wearing the No. 10 is not only about footballing ability. Character, humility and personality also matter.

That is why the Argentina captain believes Álvarez fits the profile. Still, Romero emphasized that Argentina have many important players, meaning his personal preference does not represent an official decision.

Why Is Nico Paz in the Conversation?

Nico Paz represents a very different profile.

The 22-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder has emerged as one of the country’s most exciting young talents. He already wears the No. 10 shirt for Como and has been described as a modern attacking playmaker, combining dribbling, creativity and shooting ability.

Paz has also been producing impressive numbers for Como. His performances in recent matches, including the Champions League victory over Manchester United and the Serie A win over Torino, have strengthened the argument for his potential role in Argentina’s next generation.

Romero himself has praised Paz’s ability, describing him as a highly talented and complete player whose future will depend largely on how he develops.

Who Will Carry Messi’s Legacy?

The debate over Argentina’s next No. 10 is therefore not simply about statistics.

On one side is Álvarez—a proven goalscorer, big-game performer and established Argentina international. On the other is Paz—a creative attacking midfielder whose style is closer to the traditional idea of a No. 10.

Romero has already made his preference clear: he would give the shirt to Julián Álvarez.

But Álvarez himself reportedly prefers to remain with the No. 9.

And while Nico Paz continues to rise, Argentina have yet to officially announce who will inherit Messi’s legendary No. 10 shirt.

Whoever eventually wears it will face an enormous challenge—not just replacing a number, but carrying the legacy of Maradona and Messi.