Daily Times

Argentina and Barcelona captain Lionel Messi was not named in the squad to face Mexico in two international friendlies later this month.

Messi, who is recovering from a broken-arm and was ruled out for three-weeks, will not take part in Argentina’s friendlies scheduled for November 16 and 20 respectively against Mexico.

The little Argentine has not featured in an international fixture since the defeat to France in Russia 2018 World Cup and many believe that it was the last the world of football saw of Messi in Argentina colours.

Argentina have, however, not handed Messi’s number 10 to someone else and coach Lionel Scolani believes the 31-year-old superstar will make his much anticipated return to the national team soon.

Forward Erik Lamela and Gabriel Mercado have made a come-back to the national team, while no players from Argentine clubs Boca Juniors and River Plate have been called up as both teams will feature in the Copa Libertadores final on November 10 and 24.

The Barcelona captain is expected to make his return against Atletico Madrid on November 25, but there are chances he might get the green light ahead of the fixture against Real Betis on November 11 if he recovers quickly.