Lionel Messi on the Mend: Scaloni Hoping for a Return for World Cup Qualifiers
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has given a glimmer of hope to fans as he revealed that Lionel Messi could be back in action for the World Cup qualifiers in October. The 37-year-old hasn’t played since sustaining a right ankle injury during the Copa América final against Colombia on July 14.
A Return to Training
Messi recently returned to train with Inter Miami and could feature in Saturday’s MLS game against Philadelphia. If all goes well, Scaloni is hopeful that Messi will be back in the mix for the qualifiers. "We hope he starts to play," Scaloni said. "When we give the next [squad] list [in October], we will be in contact with him as we do with everyone. Then we will see if he is available to return."
Argentina’s Qualifying Campaign
Argentina are currently top of their qualifying group, four points clear of Uruguay ahead of Tuesday’s qualifier against Colombia in Barranquilla. Scaloni is pleased with how the team is responding without Messi, crediting them for having an idea of the game beyond relying on their star man. "It is difficult for a football team not to be dependent on Leo [Messi]," Scaloni said. "It happened in every team he was in, you have a unique footballer. The good thing about this team is that we have an idea of the game beyond who is on the field, although the performers can change."
A Big Boost
Messi’s potential return would be a massive boost for Argentina’s World Cup hopes. He’s an integral part of the team and his presence on the pitch is always a game-changer. Without him, Argentina have shown that they can still compete at a high level, but having him back in the mix would be a significant advantage.
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