Lionel Messi has been in talks to be a part of Argentina’s squad for the Paris Olympics later this year. The 36-year-old debuted for La Albiceleste back in 2006 but has surprisingly never represented them at the Olympics.
Now, with this year’s edition set to begin on July 26, Messi’s representation of the national team is beginning to gain momentum.
Lionel Messi’s chances of featuring at the Paris Olympics
The Olympics will be held in July-August this year and will arrive bang in the middle of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season. Countries usually send their under-23 teams to play at the event, with three overage players permitted to take part.
The current Argentina U-23 coach is Javier Mascherano, who has played with Lionel Messi for the national team. He will do his best to convince the superstar to play, while also bearing in mind that the Copa America is also scheduled to be held this year. Speaking to TyC Sports, he said,
“I spoke with Leo and we agreed to keep talking. He has just started the season with Inter Miami and we still have some time until the Olympic Games.
“And we have to consider he also has the Copa América ahead this summer. It is not an easy situation.”
However, Mascherano admitted that he has no intentions of pressuring Lionel Messi to participate, while acknowledging the age factor as well.
“It is not our intention to bother him or pressure him. We made him an invitation in advance, and we gave him all the facts he needs to think about it and to talk with his club. It is not easy for him, either, to manage it with Inter Miami and the MLS and to be absent for a while.
“He will decide at the right time. We have to understand that Leo’s age is a factor now, he clearly has to manage his efforts.”
The forward’s record for Argentina so far
To say Lionel Messi is an Argentine footballing legend is an understatement, especially after him leading his nation to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which granted him a demi-God status.
Messi has made 180 appearances for La Albiceleste, scoring 106 goals and providing 56 assists. He is their all-time top scorer and also led his country to a Copa America victory in 2021.
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