The death of Omar Souto, the longtime Manager of Argentina’s National Teams for more than three decades, has caused deep sorrow across Argentine football. Known for his exceptional organizational skills and his decisive role within the Argentine Football Association (AFA), Souto was also a key figure in ensuring that Lionel Messi ultimately wore the iconic albiceleste jersey.
Souto, remembered fondly by several generations of footballers, became a respected reference in both youth and senior national teams. His work had a defining moment in 2003, when he took on the mission of establishing contact with a young talent from Rosario who was beginning to shine at FC Barcelona: Lionel Messi.
Messi’s Tribute: “You opened the path for me”
Following news of Souto’s passing, Messi shared a heartfelt message on social media.
“You were always there, and you were the person who opened the path for the AFA to notice me,” wrote the Argentina captain.
He added:
“An incredible human being, impossible to forget for all of us who had the privilege of passing through the National Team. Your legacy remains forever. We will never forget you, Omar. Rest in peace.”
Souto had recounted on several occasions the unusual search he undertook to locate Messi: confused by the name, he turned to a phone directory to find the family and eventually reached Jorge Messi. That first contact marked the beginning of a historic process that secured the forward’s commitment to the Argentine National Team.
Mascherano’s Dedication After Inter Miami Victory
The news of Souto’s death also resonated in the United States. After Inter Miami’s 4–0 victory over FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference Playoff Semifinal of the MLS, Javier Mascherano dedicated the win to Juan Cruz Souto, Omar’s son and a staff member for Inter Miami.
“I want to dedicate this victory to Juan Cruz Souto, who is our kitman. He’s a friend I’ve known for more than 15 years. Sadly, his father Omar has passed away—he was the person who, basically, introduced me to the Argentine National Team,” said Mascherano, visibly emotional.
A Lasting Legacy in Argentine Football
Omar Souto’s decades of service shaped the backbone of the AFA’s structure and left an indelible mark on the national team system. His influence, which helped guide countless players—including the world’s greatest—will live on in the history of Argentine football.