Giuliano Simeone backs Julián Alvarez for Argentina's number 10 shirt

Giuliano Simeone, an Atlético player, has joined the list of candidates for Julián Alvarez to wear the number 10 shirt for the Argentina national team, succeeding the legend Lionel Messi. He confirmed that his teammate possesses all the qualities that make him worthy of this historic number.

Diego Simeone's comments came after Atlético Madrid's 2-1 loss to FC Barcelona in the 12th round of LaLiga, a match in which his team scored following an assist from Julián Alvarez.

Simeone stated in remarks to "ESPN": "If Julián dares to wear the number 10 shirt with the national team, it will suit him perfectly."

He added: "He is an exceptional player with great quality, makes the team play better, provides excellent defensive work, and scores goals. He is a very complete player, and I wouldn't be surprised at all if he wears this number."

Giuliano's stance aligns with that of his teammate Cristian Romero, the Tottenham defender, who had previously expressed his support for Julián Alvarez, saying: "I will give him the number 10, because I see in him qualities of humility and caring for his family; he is a good person and has the necessary potential."

Simeone discussed Lionel Messi's absence from the national team in the upcoming stage, emphasizing that the impact of Argentina's captain will be clear. However, he stressed the importance of continuing the journey and preserving the legacy he left behind.

He said: "Leo is an exceptional player, and he is the best in history. The impact of his absence will be felt because he represents our banner, and he has always been the one to guide us on the path, but now we must continue the legacy he left and what he taught us."

He concluded: "We have helped to form a wonderful and strong group, full of enthusiasm, and we will continue to work so that his legacy remains in the highest place."

These statements come ahead of Argentina's friendly matches against Uruguay and Costa Rica, amid growing discussions about who will wear the number 10 shirt in the post-Messi era, with Julián Alvarez receiving increasing support from his teammates.