Libya News 24
Argentine star Lionel Messi said that he will not be part of the Argentina squad participating in the Paris Olympics because he is no longer old enough to play in every tournament.
The 36-year-old Inter Miami striker is currently preparing to defend his Copa America title with Argentina, which runs from June 20 to July 14 in the United States.
In February, under-23 coach Javier Mascherano said Messi, who won gold with Argentina at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, had received a call-up to the Paris squad.
“I spoke with Mascherano and the truth is that we understood the situation,” Messi told ESPN.
He added: “It is difficult to think about the Olympic Games now because we are participating in the Copa America Championship. It will take two or three consecutive months of not being with the club, and most importantly, I am not at an age that allows me to participate in everything.”
He said: “I have to choose carefully, and it will be difficult to play two tournaments in a row. I was very lucky to play in the Olympics and win it with Mascherano.”
He continued: “It was a wonderful experience at the football level… the Olympic Games and the U-20 games, memories that I will never forget.”
The men’s football tournament at the Olympic Games takes place in July and August, and teams are allowed three overage players on their teams.
Messi said yesterday, Wednesday, that he will continue his sporting career with Inter Miami, adding that he feels “a little afraid” at the idea of the day he decides to retire.
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2024-06-28 22:20:38