Lionel Messi and Juan Román Riquelme will both play in Carlos Tevez’s farewell match at La Bombonera on Sunday, December 20. Tevez revealed the confirmations during an interview with his former Manchester United teammate Rio Ferdinand for the Rio Ferdinand Presents series.

The fixture marks the farewell for Tevez, who retired from professional football in 2022 after a career spanning South America and Europe. During the conversation, the former forward confirmed: “Messi is going to play, and Riquelme too.”

Tevez Unveils Plans in Conversation with Rio Ferdinand

The announcement materialized during a discussion between Tevez and Ferdinand that touched on their shared years at Manchester United between 2007 and 2009. The conversation also revisited their past under manager Alex Ferguson, capturing the Champions League and the 2008 Club World Cup.

The dialogue turned toward the tribute match format, which aims to assemble two squads featuring friends and colleagues from different eras of Tevez’s career. Although exact kickoff times and the complete roster remain unannounced, the event is set to honor a trajectory that includes stops at Boca, Corinthians, West Ham, Manchester United, Manchester City, and Juventus.

Boca Juniors President Riquelme Reconciles Past and Pitch

Juan Román Riquelme’s inclusion carries particular weight. Riquelme, who currently serves as president of Boca, granted Tevez the authorization to use La Bombonera for the tribute event. The two were teammates during a stage of the club.

Earlier comments from Riquelme on Azz Streaming had introduced a note of uncertainty regarding his own participation on the pitch. Riquelme remarked during that appearance, “I can’t even move, do you know how long it’s been since I played ball?” despite encouraging Tevez to enjoy the celebration. Riquelme added, “He has given a lot to our club, the Boca fan loves him very much, and all we want is for him and his family to have an unforgettable day.”

Messi Returns to La Bombonera Following Prior Tribute Appearances

Lionel Messi’s confirmed presence adds attraction to the December fixture. Messi previously appeared at La Bombonera on June 25, 2023, for Riquelme’s own tribute match, creating images alongside club figures like Blas Giunta. The player from Inter Miami has since returned to the stadium for several Argentina national team fixtures, including matches against Uruguay, Peru, Zambia, and Mauritania.

Messi and Tevez shared the pitch across multiple cycles with the Argentina national team, forming part of a generation that participated in international competitions.

Cristiano Ronaldo Remains the Primary Guest Uncertainty

While Tevez has confirmed his two marquee Argentine guests, other potential invitees continue to draw speculation. Cristiano Ronaldo stands out as a prominent name. Tevez previously stated his intention to personally invite the Portuguese forward, with whom he shared the 2008 attacking frontline alongside Wayne Rooney.

Ronaldo’s participation remains unconfirmed as organizers await further updates in the weeks leading up to the December event. Additional names, including Gabriel Batistuta and Martín Palermo, have also been linked to the preliminary guest roster as planning continues.