Paris Olympics 2024: Lionel Messi omitted from Argentina squad! Know more
Xtra Time Web Desk: Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine forward, will not be part of Argentina’s squad for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, set to begin later this month. Despite his impressive resume, which includes an Olympic gold medal from Beijing in 2008, Messi's name is notably absent from Coach Javier Mascherano's list.
Messi, who has been grappling with injuries this year, is currently competing in the Copa America, where he aims to defend the continental title he secured in 2021. This victory was pivotal for Argentina, acting as a catalyst for their triumphant World Cup campaign in 2022.
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Javier Mascherano, a two-time Olympic gold medalist himself (2004 and 2008), announced the squad on Tuesday, featuring four World Cup winners. Striker Julian Alvarez and defender Nicolas Otamendi are among the selected, alongside goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. Additionally, midfielder Claudio Echeverri, a recent Manchester City signing from River Plate, will bolster the team.
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Following the conclusion of the Copa America, Mascherano will integrate Otamendi, Alvarez, and Rulli into the Olympic squad. Argentina's Olympic journey will begin with two friendlies in France before their tournament opener against Morocco on July 24. The team is placed in Group B, where they will face Morocco, Iraq, and Ukraine.
As Argentina prepares for the Olympic stage, the absence of Messi marks a significant shift, focusing attention on the emerging talents and experienced players who will carry the nation's hopes in Paris.
