Dybala scored for Argentina but ‘didn’t know’ whether to accept Messi’s No. 10 | OneFootball

Paulo Dybala scored on his Argentina return against Chile wearing the No.10 but admits he ‘didn’t know’ whether to accept Leo Messi’s shirt number.

Dybala made a sensational return to the Argentina national team on Thursday night. The Roma star scored a goal as a substitute in a 3-0 win over Chile wearing the iconic No. 10 in Leo Messi’s absence.

“It’s spectacular to be back with my teammates and our fans, who give us so much support,” the Argentinean told TyC Sports after the game.

Dybala scored for Argentina but ‘didn’t know’ whether to accept Messi’s No. 10

“We all know Leao’s importance, but it’s all about representing the national team in the best way, playing to give our best, and I think I did it today.

“The technical staff made the decision. Some lads said I should take it. I didn’t know whether to accept or not because it’s a responsibility. I didn’t think I’d return. But I returned, and I played, and when you wear this jersey, you have to give your best.”

Dybala had not been included in Argentina’s squad for last summer’s Copa America, and Scaloni said earlier this week that the striker’s return to the team was unrelated to his decision to remain at Roma, snubbing a move to the Saudi Pro League.

Serie A stars Lautaro Martinez and Nico Gonzalez started the match, but the new Juventus signing suffered an ankle injury in the second half, and his condition must be assessed.

Lazio striker Valentin Castellanos made his senior Argentina debut in the final minutes, replacing Julian Alvarez.