Argentina's return after defeat in the 2026 World Cup final was quieter, with many players, including Lionel Messi, absent. Rodrigo De Paul expressed his disappointment with the criticism that emerged.

Argentina's Calm Return, De Paul Expresses Disappointment to

Why this is important

Argentina's defeat in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain marked an important moment in the country's football history. The return of the national team in a calmer atmosphere compared to the triumphant four years ago shows a change in team dynamics and fans' expectations. The absence of Lionel Messi and other key players adds to the empty feel, creating a deep reflection on the team's journey and hopes for the future.

Background

Lionel Messi, who is Argentina's captain, was absent from the team's return after the 2026 World Cup final. His absence, along with other key players such as Rodrigo De Paul and Cristian Romero, shows the challenges Argentina face in maintaining their best form on the international stage. With Messi now playing for Inter Miami, hopes for the 2026 World Cup remain the main focus for the team and fans.

Main Points

Argentina's Quiet Return, De Paul Expresses Disappointment to.
Argentina's return after defeat in the 2026 World Cup final was quieter, with many players, including Lionel Messi, absent.
Ingetogen thuiskomst voor Argentinië, De Paul haalt uit naar critici.

The return of the Argentine national team after defeat in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain took place in a much calmer atmosphere compared to four years ago. On Monday, the day after the defeat, Argentina's players toured Buenos Aires, but almost half of the squad was absent. One of the most striking is the absence of Lionel Messi, who remains in the United States and headed straight to Miami with his teammate, Rodrigo De Paul.

Four years ago, when Argentina won the world title in Qatar, they were given a huge welcome by five million fans. However, this time, only sixteen players got off the plane in Buenos Aires. Apart from Messi and De Paul, several other key players such as Cristian Romero, Nahuel Molina, Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Lautaro Martínez, Nico Paz, Juan Musso, and former Ajax goalkeeper, Gerónimo Rulli, were also absent.

Despite rain and temperatures of just seven degrees, the returning players toured in open buses along the route from the airport to the training complex, where thousands of fans cheered them on. Emiliano Martínez, who was known to be active four years ago, this time chose to remain behind the scenes.

After the tour, the players enjoyed dinner together, but according to Argentinian media reports, the atmosphere was empty and there were not many laughs. De Paul, who is now in Miami, delivered a message to fans via social media. He stated, "If anyone deserves to relive the feelings of four years ago, it's you guys."

He also emphasized that the relationship between teams and fans is more than just trophies. "As time goes by, I increasingly realize that your ties to this group are much deeper than just a trophy. I hold on to this thought to get through these difficult times," said De Paul.

De Paul also expressed his disappointment, saying, "Today I can see how many people were waiting for this defeat. During the World Cup, they spread baseless conspiracy theories just to overcome their disappointment at not being able to experience what we experienced as Argentina. Our smiles bothered them. Our way of being bothered them. However, this only confirmed that our love and passion for this shirt can overcome everything."

Inter Miami, the club where Messi and De Paul play, will continue its Major League Soccer competition with a home match against Chicago Fire on Thursday. However, both are not expected to play, including on the road against Montréal, and are scheduled to rejoin the team early next month.

What happened next

With Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul now at Inter Miami, Argentina's focus will turn to preparations for the upcoming tournament. The returning players are expected to rebuild the team's spirit ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Meanwhile, fans will continue to look forward to the performances of Messi and co as they look to bounce back from this defeat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after Argentina's defeat in the 2026 World Cup final?

After defeat in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain, Argentina's players toured Buenos Aires, but almost half of the squad did not attend.

Who confirmed Lionel Messi's absence?

Lionel Messi's absence was confirmed by reports that he remained in the United States and headed straight to Miami.

Why is the atmosphere different this time compared to four years ago?

The atmosphere this time was calmer compared to four years ago when Argentina won the world title, with only sixteen players getting off the plane in Buenos Aires.

What changes have occurred in fans' reception of the team?

This time, the fan response was much smaller, with only thousands of fans showing their support, compared to five million fans four years ago.

What message did Rodrigo De Paul convey to fans?

Rodrigo De Paul delivered a message via social media, saying that if anyone deserves to relive the feelings of four years ago, it's the fans.

Calm Argentina Returns, De Paul Expresses Disappointment to