Argentina’s manager has hinted that Lionel Messi’s minutes will be managed in the warmups leading to the Copa America. As a result, Messi will likely feature from the bench in Sunday’s friendly against Ecuador in Chicago. This is to ensure that he stays fit and healthy for the Copa America. This could probably be Messi’s last tournament for his country. Football fans anticipate seeing Messi dazzle in his country’s outfit as the Copa America draws near.
Lionel Messi: The Center Of Attraction
In a pre-match conference, Lionel Scolani has assured the involvement of Lionel Messi in the Coming warm-up games leading to the opener of the Copa America. In a statement, he said, “People will be able to see Messi play tomorrow”. He further stated that
“He will surely play for a while. We are going to think carefully about the minutes that each player will have, to be healthy for the opener.”
Giving the undisputed audience and attention that comes with the involvement of the Argentine and Inter Miami captain. Lionel Scolani explains
“Messi I imagine he will play, I don’t know if for the whole game, 30 minutes, 60 minutes Maybe. But people are going for it to be able to see what is the most important thing.”
Making Sure Messi Stays Fit
The World Cup-winning captain last featured for Argentina as a substitute in a game against Paraguay on Oct.12, 2023. Coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory at the Estadio Monumental in Argentina.
Lionel Scaloni can set up a team without Messi, rather than picking Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Matinez to lead the attack. Although the Argentine Manager insists that he hasn’t decided on a starting 11 as he keeps evaluating the players available.
Keeping the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner fit and involved for the whole tournament run-in will be at the forefront of whatever plans the manager has in store. This will undoubtedly boost whatever chance Le Albiceleste will have in retaining the trophy.
Other Team News
With the National tournaments commencing immediately after the closure of club football, National team coaches must find a way to manage the players called up to represent their country. And Lionel Scolani’s Argentine super team isn’t an exemption.
In a press conference, Lionel Scaloni speaking said
“I still don’t have the team, especially because of the six changes I have to carefully make.
Speaking more specifically on German Pezzella, it is likely that fans attending the friendly today will not see the Real Betis defender in action.
Scaloni confirmed his fitness will continue to be monitored ahead of Argentina’s Copa America opener against Canada on June 20.
With the fitness crisis, Argentina has yet to announce its 26-player list for the Copa America. The final friendlies will most likely determine who cuts. However, regardless of the fitness issues surrounding talisman Lionel Messi, he’s nailed on to cut.
Will This Be Messi’s Last International Tournament?
Lionel Messi completed football by finally winning the World Cup trophy in the Qatar 2022 tournament. Many expected him to announce his retirement from international football after finally getting his hands on the Holy Grail. However, he has carried on to most likely feature in the upcoming 2024 Copa America Tournament.
According to an Argentine teammate, the national team doesn’t consider the Copa America to be Messi’s last tournament. with the addition that he is still considered the best player in the world and a very important part of the team.
Conclusion
It is no secret that Lionel Messi is at the Twilight of his illustrious career. However with his exceptional talent on show whenever he kicks a football, one will only speculate and wait till he feels his body can’t go any further. Till that sad day and announcement draws near we can only sit back and enjoy the last moments of the little magician’s incredible career.
About the Author
Edmund Jaja is a sports enthusiast, Content Writer, Editor, and Storyteller from Nigeria. He’s been a die-hard Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United fan since the Fergie era, with the zeal and passion to inspire through writing.
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