Messi speaks out on injury rumours ahead of Argentina’s World Cup opener

Messi fit for ‘last’ World CupRubbishes injury concernsConfident Argentina can succeed

WHAT HAPPENED? With Argentina’s World Cup campaign set to kick off on Tuesday against Saudi Arabia, there has been concern over the fitness of a certain seven-time Ballon d’Or winner in what looks to be his last hurrah at the World Cup. Fans had feared Messi was carrying an ankle injury, but the man himself offered a positive update ahead of the game.

WHAT HE SAID: Speaking in Argentina’s pre-match press conference, Messi explained: “I have no issues whatsoever. I heard there were rumors about having to miss part of the training or training a part of the training, no, it’s just precautions. Nothing strange or out of the ordinary.

“I haven’t done anything different, I just took care of myself,” he added: “I have worked as I have done throughout my entire career. This is a special moment, most likely my last World Cup. My last opportunity to make my dream, our dream a reality.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Expectations of Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina side are high, with many tipping them to go all the way in Qatar and lift the World Cup. Messi spoke wisely on the expectations, drawing on their recent Copa America triumph: “We just won a tournament and obviously it helps you work in a different way. You don’t feel as anxious. It doesn’t put as much pressure on you, we just focus on enjoying our time with the national team.”

IN THREE PHOTOS:

WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI? Barring any calamities, Messi will most likely lead the line for his nation as they take on Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Related Post
Share
Published by

Recent Posts

Novak Djokovic ‘honoured’ to have rivalry with Rafael Nadal

Novak Djokovic said it was his honour to share the epic rivalry with Rafael Nadal.… Read More

November 22, 2024

Robert Lewandowski names Sergio Ramos as his most ‘favourite and difficult’ opponent to face

Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has named former Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos as his most… Read More

November 22, 2024

Pep Guardiola signs Manchester City extension through 2027

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has signed a two-year contract extension with the club till… Read More

November 22, 2024

Mohammedan SC’s Andrey Chernyshov wants team to give their best in every Indian Super League match

Mohammedan SC’s head coach Andrey Chernyshov wants the club to give their best in every… Read More

November 22, 2024

Nick Kyrgios says the game of tennis is bland in the post Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal era

Controversial Nick Kyrgios has predicted tennis will become bland after Rafael Nadal’s retirement. Nadal lost… Read More

November 22, 2024