So far, Argentina’s performance at the World Cup in Russia has been disappointing. After an opening 1:1 draw with Iceland, the South American side were defeated 3:0 by Croatia, so their chances of progressing to the Last 16 seem vague.

In case they don’t go through, the last group game against Nigeria may be the last international match for Lionel Messi. There are many talks now that the 31-year-old may retire from international football, as he has had too many frustrating tournaments with his national team.

However, Messi may be not the only one as Argentina might face a big generational change after the tournament in Russia. According to Argentine media, seven more national players consider their retirement from the team in case they do not progress from the group.

Javier Mascherano, who is already 34, is going to retire anyway. But his example may be followed not just by Messi, but by Marcos Rojo, Lucas Biglia, Angel Di Maria, Sergio Aguero, Ever Banega and Gonzalo Higuain.

With the exception of the 28-year-old Rojo, all other above-mentioned players have already turned 30 (well, Banega is going to celebrate his 30th birthday in a week). Still most of them could certainly help the national team in a few coming years - but in case of an early World Cup relegation, they will be too frustrated and will not have a desire to wait until 2022.

Then the Argentina coach, whoever he may be after the current tournament, will have to completely rebuild the team. With Paulo Dybala, Mauro Icardi, Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Pavon - but without Messi and his generation. An entirely different chapter of the team’s history will then begin...