The Argentine superstar will not attend the Paris Olympics as an overage player. The player himself, born in 1987, proactively shared this information with ESPN
Olympic men’s soccer is primarily an under-23 tournament, with each team allowed three overage players, leading to much discussion that Lionel Messi could join the Argentine Olympic team. Previously, two players over 23 years old were identified as Nicolas Otamendi and Emiliano Martinez. The fans expect the remaining spot will go to Messi but that will not happen.
Speaking to ESPN, Messi said: “I spoke with Mascherano (Argentine Olympic coach) and the truth is that we both understand the situation. It’s difficult to think about the Olympics right now because we are in Copa America. It will be two or three months in a row without being with the club, and most of all, I’m not at the age where I can participate in everything.
I have to choose carefully, and it would be too much to play two tournaments in a row. I was very lucky to compete in the Olympics and win gold with Mascherano himself. It was a great experience at football level and memories I will never forget. I hope that those who get to attend will enjoy it as much as I did because it was special. The Olympics are very special, different from all other tournaments.”
With Messi announcing that he will not attend the Paris Olympics, men’s soccer at this year’s Olympics will be less attractive because before that, Kylian Mbappe was not agreed by the new club – Real Madrid to play for the French Olympic team.
Men’s soccer at the Olympics is not part of FIFA Days, so clubs have the right to not accept their requests to be called up to the national team.
