Buenos Aires
Lionel Messi will travel with Argentina’s squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Bolivia in La Paz, confirmed Albiceleste manager Lionel Scaloni. Messi trained separately from his teammates on Sunday as a precaution after being withdrawn late in Argentina’s 1-0 home win over Ecuador in their opening South American zone qualifier on Thursday. Tests conducted on Friday cleared Messi of any significant injury. However, Scaloni is considering whether to rest the 36-year-old superstar due to concerns over his heavy recent workload. Messi has played 12 games in the past 48 days and has had limited rest since joining Inter Miami on a free transfer in mid-July. The upcoming clash against Bolivia in La Paz’s Hernando Siles stadium, situated at an altitude of more than 3,600 meters above sea level, will be physically demanding. The thin air at that altitude can pose challenges for athletes. Apart from the possible exclusion of Messi and defender Cristian Romero, who suffered a minor right leg injury against Ecuador, Scaloni indicated that there would be few changes to Argentina’s starting lineup. The final decision on Messi’s participation will be made closer to the match, with Scaloni considering the player’s condition and fitness in the coming days.
