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FIFA World Cup 2022 winning Argentina captain Lionel Messi will miss the upcoming Olympics which will be hosted by Paris from July 26. With the rigours of Copa America looming large and considering his age factor the football great reckoned that it would be tough for him to play two consecutive tournaments.
Messi shared his thoughtful perspective, expressing his gratitude for the invitation from former teammate and under-23 manager Javier Mascherano.
“It's hard (to think about the Olympics right now) because we're in Copa America. It would be two, three straight months of not being with the club, and more than anything I'm not at an age to be in everything” Messi told ESPN.
He recalled his memories of playing in the Olympics, he said that it was a wonderful experience.
"I have to choose carefully, and it would be too much to play two straight tournaments. I've been very lucky to play in the Olympics, of winning it together with (Mascherano). It was a wonderful experience on a football level. Olympics, U20, memories I'll never forget" added Messi.
Messi was the Olympics gold medalist in 2008 Beijing Olympics. He is not featuring in the Games, he said that he will look to feature in the FIFA World Cup which will take place in 2026.
“I said it, as long as I feel good, I am physically well and I can continue performing at the highest level and helping my team-mates, I would like to continue being there” concluded Messi.
Argentina will kick off their Copa America campaign against Canada on 21 June they will enter the tournament as defending champions.
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