Lionel Messi’s participation in the Paris Olympic Games is still on the table, even if it will probably be difficult for the Argentinian to complete a second major competition after the Copa America.
Lionel Messi against Kylian Mbappé at the Olympic Games? At this stage of the season, it’s still a real possibility. But Javier Mascherano, the coach of the Argentina Olympic team, suggested that it would be complicated to see the eight-time Ballon d’Or in Paris this summer.
“I spoke to Leo, and we decided to continue discussing it, Mascherano told Tyc Sports this week. Leo has just started the season with Inter Miami, and we still have time before the Olympics. And we must also take into account the Copa America this summer. It’s not an easy situation. »
Forced to choose between the Copa America and the Olympics
The Copa America 2024 is in fact scheduled for this summer, from June 20 to July 10. The Olympics will take place immediately, with a football tournament which will last from July 24 to July 10. Two major competitions in less than two months, on two different continents, it’s not easy, especially for a player who will celebrate his 37th birthday this year. But we must also take into account Inter Miami, which will continue to play in MLS and the Leagues Cup during this period.
However, the Florida club suggested that its South American players were going to have to choose between the Copa America and the Olympics. And nothing says that Messi will be able to benefit from a privilege from his employer.
“We have to see if he will have the energy to come to Paris, Mascherano continued. It is not our intention to annoy him or put pressure on him. We gave him an invitation in advance, and we give him all the information so that he has time to think about it and talk about it with his club. It’s not easy for him to deal with this with Inter Miami. He will decide in due time. »
