Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is expected to make an appearance in Argentina’s Copa America warm-up match at Soldier Field in Chicago.
Fans eagerly anticipating the superstar’s performance will not be disappointed, as Messi is set to play, although the exact duration of his participation is still undetermined.
Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, are understandably cautious about managing Messi’s workload as they prepare to defend their Copa America title in the United States.
The 36-year-old has experienced occasional injuries during his time with MLS side Inter Miami in 2024, prompting the team to prioritize his fitness and avoid unnecessary risks.
When asked about his plans for Messi in the upcoming match against Ecuador, Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni explained:
“People will be able to see Messi. He will surely play for a while. We are going to think carefully about the minutes that each one will have to be healthy for the first game.
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Messi I imagine he will play, I don’t know if the whole game, 30 minutes, 60, whatever. But people are going to be able to see him, which is the most important thing.”
Scaloni’s strategy might involve starting with other attacking talents like Lautaro Martinez or Julian Alvarez, allowing Messi to enter the game as a substitute. This approach ensures that Messi can participate while also preserving his fitness for the tournament’s more crucial stages, Goal News Report
In addition to the friendly against Ecuador, Argentina has another warm-up match scheduled against Guatemala before their Copa America campaign kicks off.
The Albiceleste will face Canada in their tournament opener on June 20, and managing Messi’s playing time in the lead-up to this match will be essential for Argentina’s success.
Overall, while the exact minutes Messi will play in the Chicago friendly remain uncertain, fans can rest assured that they will witness the magic of their talismanic captain on the field, all while the team takes necessary precautions to ensure his readiness for the Copa America challenge ahead.