Lionel Messi is unlikely to feature for Argentina when the reigning Copa America champions take on Peru this weekend. The Albiceleste have already qualified for the next round, giving Lionel Scaloni the pragmatic excuse to rest the 37-year-old.
But Miami is Messi’s home city. The Inter Miami star must feel desperate to entertain the crowds who’ve paid outrageously priced tickets to see the GOAT in action.
Hampered and goalless, Messi still has made six big contributions in his first two Copa America matches. He hit the post against Chile but also took a knock to his right hamstring in the first half.
According to the latest reports, Messi passed his latest medical on Friday, showing no significant injury despite the initial contracture. Argentina’s number 10 will likely rest over the next nine days before facing Venezuela or Mexico in the Copa America quarterfinals.
Scaloni already alluded to Messi’s absence after the 1-nil win over Chile on Wednesday night.
“Messi is 37 years old, but today he made 11 dribbles. This is a number that no player could do in the current Euro Cup or the Copa America now,” said Scaloni.
“Messi was born to be the best. You may find him growing up or his features changing, but in football he will remain number one forever. He played this game with fever and we will give him rest in next match against Peru. With Messi, we believe that we will achieve the Copa, and his presence is the advantage that any team in the world desires.”
Copa America could be Messi’s last international tournament. The knocks are finally catching up, as he’s suffered injuries and discomfort since that dramatic World Cup victory in 2022. He’ll be 39 by the time World Cup 2026 rolls around.
The last time Messi failed to score a goal in the group stages was in the 2010 World Cup. Perhaps the drought portends the end is nearer than you think.
Photo: ig/leomessi
