Lionel Messi's absence from Argentina's training session has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming Copa America match against Peru.
Messi, who turned 37 this week, had to receive medical treatment on his thigh during Argentina's 1-0 victory over Chile. Following the match, reports suggested that Messi may sit out the upcoming Copa America game against Peru on June 29 to rest a sore thigh injury.
According to The Athletic, he stayed at the team hotel while teammates took to the pitch at Florida International University on Thursday. He underwent treatment on his right adductor with a team physio focused on kinesiology exercises.
With Argentina already qualified for the next round after two wins in Group A, the team may give their star player some much-needed rest to ensure he's fit for the knockout stages. Should Argentina win Group A without their superstar captain, the team will face either Ecuador or Mexico in Houston in the next round of the tournament.
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Messi detailed his injury against Chile and how it affected him. "I felt some discomfort in my right hamstright at the beginning of the game. It was tight," said Messi.
"It wasn't as loose as it should've been. But I was able to finish the game. We'll, see how it goes." Fans are now eagerly awaiting official confirmation, hoping for the best, but signs point to him sitting out for the upcoming game.
Messi's muscle injuries are starting to add up fast, causing concern about his long-term fitness, let alone with Argentina. Messi suffered an adductor injury in February, sidelining him for two Inter Miami preseason matches.
Last September, Messi left the field in the 37th minute during Inter Miami's 4-0 win over Toronto FC due to muscle issues. The setbacks are part of a pattern that has seen the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner miss short spans of games.
Lionel Messi was crucial in both of Argentina's goals in the Copa America opener (CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)Beyond his historical achievements, including becoming the first Argentine player to participate in seven Copa America tournaments, Messi continues to prove his effectiveness despite his recent injury struggles. He has contributed one assist in two games so far in the competition.
Lautaro Martínez and Julian Alvarez have largely shared scoring responsibility. Martínez has already scored two goals, while Alvarez has contributed one, helping Argentina's two-game win streak. Despite Messi's absence, bookmakers still favor Argentina to win the Copa América, highlighting the team's balanced depth and attracting talent.
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