Lionel Messi: Argentina coach says Barcelona star will play at the Copa America

Lionel Scaloni believes it's 'evident' Messi, who retired following the World Cup in Russia, will play

Tuesday 26 March 2019 09:03 GMT
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Messi returned to the national team on Friday
Messi returned to the national team on Friday (AFP/Getty Images)

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Lionel Messi will play for Argentina in the Copa America in June, according to coach Lionel Scaloni.

Scaloni, speaking in Morocco, where Argentina face the national team on Tuesday, said he has not discussed Messi's plans with his star man since Argentina lost to Venezuela 3-1 on Friday.

However, he believes it's "evident" Messi, who retired following the World Cup in Russia, will play.

“It is evident he will be. He showed maximum will here and we see he is very driven," Scaloni said.

When the match against Venezuela finished, we talked about the match, not about what is to come. We will work to get a better team.

“Too much dependence on Messi? We have to work for that not to happen, for every player not to be always drawn to Leo, he will help us win matches, that's for sure.”

The friendly against Venezuela marked Messi's first match for Argentina since Russia, but he could not help as the Albiceleste slumped to a disappointing defeat.

Messi will not play against Morocco because of a groin injury.

AP

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