Javier Mascherano, coach of the Argentina U-23 national team, remains hopeful that he can persuade Lionel Messi to participate in this summer’s Olympics.
Messi is unlikely to be in Paris due to his packed schedule this year. But Mascherano told TyC Sports: This week, he was said to have held talks with the Argentine player about becoming one of Argentina’s three overage players.
The Olympic roster is made up of U-23 players, and teams are allowed to include three or more players.
“I have talked to Leo and we have agreed to continue the discussion. He has just started the season with Inter Miami and there is still time until the Olympics. And considering he also has the Copa America coming up this summer. We need to. It’s not an easy situation,” Mascherano said. Translated by USA Today.
“We need to see if he really has the energy to be there.” [in Paris]. We’re not trying to embarrass him or put pressure on him. We invited him in advance and gave him all the facts he needed to think about it and discuss it with the club. It’s not easy for him to manage it with Inter Miami and MLS and be out for a while.
“He will make a decision at the right time.”
Messi, 36, is currently under contract with Inter Miami, having signed the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner last summer.
He is also scheduled to represent his country in the Copa America 2024, which will be held from June 20th to July 10th.
Coinciding with this year’s Olympics is the League’s Cup, a tournament involving all MLS clubs and teams from Mexico’s Liga MX.
In addition to that, Mascherano understands that Messi’s age is also now part of the equation.
“Besides the fact that he still has the highest level, you have to understand that Leo’s age is now a factor. He obviously has to manage his efforts.” he said.
Inter Miami coach Tata Martino has indicated that he would like his players to play in either the Olympics or the Copa America, but not both international tournaments.
Messi played in the first three games of this year’s regular season for Inter Miami, scoring three goals and providing one assist.
He led Argentina to the gold medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, and recorded an assist in the final match against Nigeria.
