Star Metro - Without Messi, Argentine team set for low-key homecoming

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced overnight that "some squad members will depart directly from the United States to various destinations to rejoin their clubs or begin their rest period," without further details.

Argentine media reported that neither captain Lionel Messi nor midfielder Rodrigo de Paul -- teammates at Inter Miami -- were expected to make the trip.

Coach Lionel Scaloni was also not expected to be on the flight to Buenos Aires, according to the reports.

Those returning were expected to land around 6.30pm local time (2130 GMT), Aerolineas Argentinas told AFP, adding that "no media call or special reception" has been planned.

While crestfallen after the loss, thousands of Argentines headed to the traditional celebration point at the Obelisk in Buenos Aires where they partied for hours on Sunday evening, with fireworks and gratitude to their team.

Late at night, brief clashes broke out at the monument and police used water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse revellers. Fifteen people were detained, according to police sources.

Many told AFP they planned to hit the streets to welcome back the team.

After the final, President Javier Milei announced that a future date agreed with the team would be set as a public holiday to celebrate their performance in the World Cup. No further details have been announced.

In 2022, fresh from their victory in Qatar, the Albiceleste received a hero's welcome, with millions of people lining the 30-kilometer route taken by their open top bus, which was brought to a standstill by the crowds and the parade aborted for security reasons.

Some players ended up doing a helicopter tour above the main parade sites.

K.Morrison--SMC