Lionel Messi has the opportunity to participate in this year’s Paris Olympics, according to Argentina’s under-23 manager, Javier Mascherano. Argentina secured their spot in the Games by defeating Brazil 1-0 in the South American qualifying tournament’s final four on Sunday.
When questioned about the prospect of the 36-year-old Messi joining the team in Paris, Mascherano, who shares a history with Messi from their time at Argentina and Barcelona, stated to reporters, “Well, everyone knows my relationship with Leo, the friendship I have with him. I have always said that a player like Leo has opened doors, and the invitation to accompany us will obviously depend on him, his commitments, and his schedule, but the invitation will undoubtedly be extended.”
Messi, currently playing as a forward for Inter Miami, led Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022 and previously clinched gold with the national team at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.
The men’s soccer tournament at the Olympics is scheduled for July and August, with teams allowed to include three overage players in their squads.